In honor of this great pianist, I have decided to start a thread just for him. I will post my thoughts on his CDs and invite you to do the same. I plan to paste a number of my posts from the old GMG here in this thread. The old thread just focused on his Beethoven, but this one is open to all discussion on the pianist.
Here's a link to the old thread: Here's a link to the old discussion. (http://www.good-music-guide.com/forum/index.php/topic,12959.0.html)
I've also found a fairly comprehensive discography for this artist: http://fischer.hosting.paran.com/music/music.htm
Rudolf Serkin's Beethoven - Because Serkin's Beethoven sonata performances are spread out over a number of different labels and at different points in his career, I have attempted to summarize and comment on these various releases. A few have been left out (on Pearl, Aura, etc), only because I haven't heard them yet, but if I can get a copy of these, I will add them to this review.
(http://ec2.images-amazon.com/images/P/B000002A8G.01._AA240_SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg)(http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/P/B0000CD5GS.01._AA240_SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg)(http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/P/B0000027P3.01._AA130_SCMZZZZZZZ_.jpg)
(http://ec2.images-amazon.com/images/P/B00008PW4C.01._AA240_SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg) This 5CD set on Columbia Legends contains all of Serkin's stereo Beethoven recordings for Sony, compiling the three releases pictured above it, except for the Fantasy from the Essential Classics CD and the 1960 Op. 110 from the "Unreleased Box." The 5CD has a later recording of Op. 110, from 1971. Much of this 5CD set is simply OK. This includes Op. 26, 31/1, 57, 78, 81a, 101 and 110. In these sonatas, his technical ability was either beginning to decline or had already declined. As for the better performances, I thought that the Op. 111 was far and away the best of the lot. His Serkinian power and solidity in the first movement led to a tender and profound second movement. The Moonlight, which also can be found coupled with his Appassionata, Pathetique and Les Adieux on a single disc was excellent. I thought the Op. 109, 22, 13, 10/2 and Hammerklavier were also excellent. I don't think I've heard anyone generate the wall of sound that Serkin creates at the start of his Hammerklavier. I was simply awestruck! This one is also available as a single disc (used) on Sony Essential Classics. His Op. 2/1 and 27/1 were not quite as good, but still recommendable and enjoyable. So overall, more strengths than weaknesses IMO, so I recommend the set as a whole. These recordings were made between 1962 and 1977. Luckily, many of them are available at an earlier point in his career when he was at his peak.
(http://musicandarts.com/CDpages/CD1141.jpg)For example, Op. 78 and 81a are available on a 2CD set by Music and Arts. These two performances are excellent and come coupled with the best Waldstein I have ever heard. The sound is certainly not as good as the Sony set, but with performances like these, one easy forgets the sound. The main redeeming feature of this set is the best Waldstein ever recorded, IMO. The Op. 110 in the 5CD set is eclipsed by his other stereo recording from 1960.
(http://ec2.images-amazon.com/images/P/B000002A8G.01._AA240_SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg) This 1960 Op. 110 is contained in this Sony 3CD set. Why Sony chose to include the later one in the 5CD set is beyond me. Unfortunately the only way to get this incredible performance is to buy the 3CD set, even though doing so results in duplicating much of the 5CD set. Nice move, Sony! Although only 11 years separate these 2 performances of Op. 110, the difference is like night and day! The 1960 performance is much better recorded and performed. The sound is warmer and more suitable to this sonata. The central movement has great power and rhythmic drive and elsewhere he has an uncharacteristic gentleness and depth of feeling that makes for a superb reading. The 1971 has much drier sound and little of the other redeeming qualities of the 1960 version. I think it was a terrible mistake for Sony to only include the 1960 finale in the 5CD set. At the least, they should have discarded the 1971 performance in favor of the 1960. Even stranger is the fact that Serkin himself did not approve of the 1960 performance for release.
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51-wRubQfcL._SL500_AA280_.jpg) The Op. 57 from the M&A set is also bettered in mono sound, this time here on this Sony CD. The remainder of this disc (in mono sound) is also excellent and deserves an unqualified recommendation. All of the performances better his later stereo recordings IMO. The transfers are better here than the M&A set, so the duplicated performances didn't bother me at all.
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/416KHXY3GZL._SL500_AA240_.jpg)The later performances on this live DG CD, are all bettered by earlier performances in his discography. It is surely of interest to admirers of the pianist, but not a wise place to begin if just starting out.
If you are just beginning to collect Serkin's Beethoven, I suggest starting with the mono Sony and/or Music and Arts discs, as the performances are all excellent on these discs. The Sony has better transfers but the M&A has that stellar Waldstein. When I last checked, the M&A is available through Archiv Music. Then, if more is desired, the above 5CD Sony set is not too big an investment. However, I would not be without the 3CD set, for it has that incredible Op. 110 that is unique to that release. My experience with Serkin's Beethoven has shown me that his earlier performances are the ones to have.
Here's one of the greatest Mozart concerto discs I know.
It's a very dark and violent reading of Concerto #20 -- real Don Giovanni music, if you know what I mean.
It may not fit everyones idea of how this music should be played, but it is, I think, essential listening for everyone.
I have edited my first posts to open up the topic of this thread to include all discussion about Rudolf Serkin.
My second post has been edited for clarity. :)
Quote from: Que on February 05, 2009, 09:37:38 PM
Not necessary: click "notify" at the bottom of the page.
Q
Well that changes everything!!
Quote from: Que on February 05, 2009, 09:37:38 PM
Not necessary: click "notify" at the bottom of the page.
Q
When I do that I end up with email notification. :-\
If I just post in the thread, I see it under "new replies to your posts" and get no email.
I never figured out how to adjust this, so I usually do what aquariuswb did.
I have a DVD of Serkin playing Beethoven late sonatas and it looked like his finger joints were red and swollen. He played wonderfully nevertheless. Did he suffer from arthritis late in his life?
Agree with the Hammerklavier and the Mozart PC #20.
George - do you have his Diabellis? And if so, what do you think?
Quote from: Holden on February 06, 2009, 05:36:13 PM
George - do you have his Diabellis? And if so, what do you think?
I do and I think they are great!
I especially love the crickets in the concluding minutes, very cool. 8)
Quote from: springrite on February 06, 2009, 05:13:08 AM
I have a DVD of Serkin playing Beethoven late sonatas and it looked like his finger joints were red and swollen. He played wonderfully nevertheless. Did he suffer from arthritis late in his life?
Agree with the Hammerklavier and the Mozart PC #20.
Yes, his hands were often referred to as sausage fingers.
If I had a favorite pianist, it would be Serkin.
His recordings of Mozart piano Concerti with Schneider, Szell and Ormandy (12, 17, 19, 20, 27), some of his recordings of Beethoven (Sonatas opus 13, 27/2, 81A, 109, Piano Concerti 1, 2 and 5 with Ormandy), Schubert (Sonatas D 959 and 960, Impromptus opus 142, Trio opus 100 and Fantasia for piano and violin with Adolf Busch), Brahms (First Piano Quartet opus 25 with the Busch Quartet) and Schumann (Piano Quintet with the Budapest) are among my most cherished of my collection.
Quote from: George on February 05, 2009, 05:46:48 PM
I thought that the Op. 111 was far and away the best of the lot. His Serkinian power and solidity in the first movement led to a tender and profound second movement.
(http://ec2.images-amazon.com/images/P/B000002A8G.01._AA240_SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg)
Is this Op. 111 also available in the above set? Or on some single CD?
Quote from: George on February 05, 2009, 05:46:48 PM
Hammerklavier were also excellent. I don't think I've heard anyone generate the wall of sound that Serkin creates at the start of his Hammerklavier. I was simply awestruck! This one is also available as a single disc (used) on Sony Essential Classics.
Is the Hammerklavier available in both the below CD's, or are these different performances? Difficult to navigate in the Serkin repertoire...
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/21G6GYXJ3PL._SL500_AA130_.jpg) (http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/414RPTUZfxL._SL500_AA240_.jpg)
Quote from: rubio on February 11, 2009, 11:36:20 PM
Is this Op. 111 also available in the above set? Or on some single CD?
The Op. 111 is the same in the 3CD and the 5CD set, but I don't think it was released on a single CD. The 3CD has only one unique performance, the best Op. 110 ever recorded IMO.
Quote
Is the Hammerklavier available in both the below CD's, or are these different performances? Difficult to navigate in the Serkin repertoire...
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/21G6GYXJ3PL._SL500_AA130_.jpg) (http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/414RPTUZfxL._SL500_AA240_.jpg)
Same performances.
There is a handy discography for Serkin. I just tracked it down! (http://fischer.hosting.paran.com/music/music.htm)
Quote from: George on February 12, 2009, 03:17:54 AM
The Op. 111 is the same in the 3CD and the 5CD set, but I don't think it was released on a single CD. The 3CD has only one unique performance, the best Op. 110 ever recorded IMO.
Same performances.
There is a handy discography for Serkin. I just tracked it down! (http://fischer.hosting.paran.com/music/music.htm)
Thanks a lot!
Quote from: val on February 07, 2009, 01:59:54 AM
If I had a favorite pianist, it would be Serkin.
Piano Concerti 1, 2 and 5 with Ormandy)
The 2nd concerto is also conducted by Ormandy? It seems like it's 100% impossible to find.
Quote from: rubio on February 12, 2009, 08:35:30 AM
The 2nd concerto is also conducted by Ormandy? It seems like it's 100% impossible to find.
Holden found a source for me, but I never acted on it. :-\
A very special broadcast of some of Serkin's live performances will air tomorrow night, 7:00 pm EST (http://www.classicalmusicguide.com/viewtopic.php?f=10&t=27560&sid=2fadfc814e3ff2bd274a72b9bcec1f0b)
The program:
•J. S. Bach: Capriccio in B-flat Major, BWV 992 ("On the Departure of His Most Beloved Brother") [r. live 1950]
•Mendelssohn: Prelude and Fugue in E Minor, Op. 35/1 [r. live 1975]
•Schubert: Moments Musicaux, Op. 94, Nos. 1-4, 6 [r. 1952]
It will be broadcasted by Lance from CMG and can be heard on your computer.
GREAT thread, George!
Probably my favorite Serkin recording on the shelf:
(http://www.arkivmusic.com/graphics/covers/full/31/316041.JPG)
Sonata for Violin and Piano no 1 in G major, Op. 78 by Johannes Brahms
Performer: Adolf Busch (Violin), Rudolf Serkin (Piano)
Sonata for Violin and Piano no 2 in A major, Op. 100 by Johannes Brahms
Performer: Adolf Busch (Violin), Rudolf Serkin (Piano)
Sonata for Violin and Piano no 1 in A minor, Op. 105 by Robert Schumann
Performer: Adolf Busch (Violin), Rudolf Serkin (Piano)
Hungarian Dances (21) for Piano 4 hands, WoO 1: no 2 in D minor by Johannes Brahms
Performer: Adolf Busch (Violin), Bruno Seidler-Winkler (Piano)
Hungarian Dances (21) for Piano 4 hands, WoO 1: no 5 in F sharp minor by Johannes Brahms
Performer: Adolf Busch (Violin), Bruno Seidler-Winkler (Piano)
Hungarian Dances (21) for Piano 4 hands, WoO 1: no 20 in E minor by Johannes Brahms
Date of Recording: 05/04/1931
I am also fond of these two discs:
Rudolf Serkin
The First Recordings
EMI 7 54374 2
(http://www.arkivmusic.com/graphics/covers/non-muze/full/emi54374.jpg)
This has a lot with Adolf Busch or the Busch Chamber Players (so I am guessing they can be found elsewhere in better packaging, ie Pearl and newer EMI releases), but it also has:
Beethoven: Sonata No. 23 "Appassionata"-Recorded in 1936
Is this particualr LvB recording on another disc, George?
Another is:
Rudolf Serkin
On the Radio During His Debut
February 23, 1936
Label: The Radio Years
However, these recordings can be had on this disc, and I believe it is the only one in print that has them (could be wrong here):
(http://www.arkivmusic.com/graphics/covers/full/53/538846.jpg)
http://www.arkivmusic.com/classical/Drilldown?name_id1=858&name_role1=1&name_id2=56717&name_role2=3&bcorder=31&comp_id=1984
They are the last two listed.
Quote from: Bogey on March 27, 2009, 05:39:41 AM
Rudolf Serkin
On the Radio During His Debut
February 23, 1936
Label: The Radio Years
However, these recordings can be had on this disc, and I believe it is the only one in print that has them (could be wrong here):
(http://www.arkivmusic.com/graphics/covers/full/53/538846.jpg)
http://www.arkivmusic.com/classical/Drilldown?name_id1=858&name_role1=1&name_id2=56717&name_role2=3&bcorder=31&comp_id=1984
That looks very cool, I will have to check it out. How are the transfers? Decent amount of noise?
Quote from: Bogey on March 27, 2009, 05:39:41 AM
I am also fond of these two discs:
Rudolf Serkin
The First Recordings
EMI 7 54374 2
(http://www.arkivmusic.com/graphics/covers/non-muze/full/emi54374.jpg)
This has a lot with Adolf Busch or the Busch Chamber Players (so I am guessing they can be found elsewhere in better packaging, ie Pearl and newer EMI releases), but it also has:
Beethoven: Sonata No. 23 "Appassionata"-Recorded in 1936
Is this particualr LvB recording on another disc, George?
I believe it's on his GPOTC set.
Quote from: George on March 27, 2009, 06:28:19 AM
That looks very cool, I will have to check it out. How are the transfers? Decent amount of noise?
On mine... the LvB is very rough. The Mozart a bit better.
Is the GPOTC still in print?
Quote from: Bogey on March 27, 2009, 06:31:09 AM
On mine... the LvB is very rough. The Mozart a bit better.
Is the GPOTC still in print?
When you say rough, do you mean noisy, like Pearl?
The GPOTC is not in print. None of them are. :-[
Makes Pearl sound pretty clean.
At least the No. 23/1936 is still available on the two disc set on the other page. One would really have to want it though. Do you have the GPOTC recording?
Just noticed at the end of the live Serkin recording the radio broadcaster comes on during the applause and closes the show. Neat stuff.
Quote from: Bogey on March 27, 2009, 06:44:03 AM
Makes Pearl sound pretty clean.
At least the No. 23/1936 is still available on the two disc set on the other page. On would really have to want it though. Do you have the GPOTC recording?
I don't, but it's gettable. :)
(http://www.arkivmusic.com/graphics/covers/non-muze/full/132112.jpg)
I've just bought this and am really enjoying what I am hearing which brings me to the next point. Which of his other LvB sonatas would you recommend? I know that George has discussed this at the beginning of this thread but what should I do from here - get Op 106 and 110? Are these his best versions of 8, 14 and 23 or are the later stereo versions in CD below better?
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/511QJMJ5WVL._SL500_AA300_.jpg)
Come in George, Todd, et al
Quote from: Holden on January 07, 2011, 06:15:02 PMwhat should I do from here - get Op 106 and 110? Are these his best versions of 8, 14 and 23 or are the later stereo versions in CD below better?
Do get his 106; it is one of the supreme versions out there to my ears. In general, earlier Serkin is better than later Serkin, but there are exceptions, and pretty much all are woth hearing.
Let's not forget Serkins' Brahms piano concertos with Szell--both wonderful, as is his earlier Brahms 2nd with Ormandy.
Anyone here know this biography -- and the recording of Medelssohn, Bach and Chopin Op 25 Etudes which comes with it?
http://www.musicweb-international.com/classrev/2003/Nov03/serkinbook.jpg
The recordings I value most are probably all chamber music - the Brahms with the Busch Brothers especially, bur also the second Schubert trio and the Beethoven violin sonatas.
The Schumann trio with Casals at the Malboro Festival didn't seem to be quite as interesting: maybe I should listen again.
Some of the Mozart concertos are fine too -- the 19 with Abaddo and the 14 with the Busch Chamber players. T
Quote from: Mandryka on January 08, 2011, 08:53:42 AM
Anyone here know this biography -- and the recording of Medelssohn, Bach and Chopin Op 25 Etudes which comes with it?
http://www.musicweb-international.com/classrev/2003/Nov03/serkinbook.jpg
The recordings I value most are probably all chamber music - the Brahms with the Busch Brothers especially.
I have these two....anything I am missing M?
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/61i13l4ouYL._SL500_AA300_.jpg)
Sonatas in G major Op. 78 & A major Op. 100;
Hungarian Dances Nos. 2, 5 & 20 (Bruno Seidler-Winkler on these)(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/21HBQY3HH5L._SL500_AA300_.jpg)
Quintet in FI know I am missing some works in this Brahms/Busch/Serkin category, but the Pearls are crazy prices....suggested altenatives
I like the Horn Trio with Brain and the A major Piano Quartet with Bros. Busch.
I haven't played the Clarinet sonatas with Kell and the Violin Sonatas with Busch for years, but I used to enjoy them, especially the violin sonatas.
Quote from: Holden on January 07, 2011, 06:15:02 PM
(http://www.arkivmusic.com/graphics/covers/non-muze/full/132112.jpg)
I've just bought this and am really enjoying what I am hearing which brings me to the next point. Which of his other LvB sonatas would you recommend? I know that George has discussed this at the beginning of this thread but what should I do from here - get Op 106 and 110? Are these his best versions of 8, 14 and 23 or are the later stereo versions in CD below better?
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/511QJMJ5WVL._SL500_AA300_.jpg)
Come in George, Todd, et al
His best are the mono recordings. The single SONY CD has many of the performances you have in that Music and Arts set, but in better sound. The 1960 Op. 110 is the best i have heard for that work, it's included in the 3 CD set "The Unreleased Studio Recordings." The rest are good, but the ones I mentioned are the cream of the crop IMO. I would avoid the late recordings on DG.
Quote from: Mandryka on January 08, 2011, 08:53:42 AM
Anyone here know this biography -- and the recording of Medelssohn, Bach and Chopin Op 25 Etudes which comes with it?
http://www.musicweb-international.com/classrev/2003/Nov03/serkinbook.jpg
The recordings I value most are probably all chamber music - the Brahms with the Busch Brothers especially, bur also the second Schubert trio and the Beethoven violin sonatas.
The Schumann trio with Casals at the Malboro Festival didn't seem to be quite as interesting: maybe I should listen again.
Some of the Mozart concertos are fine too -- the 19 with Abaddo and the 14 with the Busch Chamber players. T
Need to send you a PM, can you empty part of your mailbox?
There's a Beethoven PC4 with Toscanini which is recorded on dog biscuits, but you can hear enough if you've got the knack of listening to old records. Anyway -- I found it for download easily enough and I think it is really very good indeed -- one of my favourite recordings of that concerto in fact.
Quote from: Mandryka on January 14, 2011, 09:38:53 AM
There's a Beethoven PC4 with Toscanini which is recorded on dog biscuits, but you can hear enough if you've got the knack of listening to old records. Anyway -- I found it for download easily enough and I think it is really very good indeed -- one of my favourite recordings of that concerto in fact.
Early (mono) Serkin is killer. :)
Quote from: George on January 14, 2011, 11:21:29 AM
Early (mono) Serkin is killer. :)
Speaking of killer....it looks like one of your early images in this thread got axed,
buddy. Could you redo it, as I have used your posts for reference.
PS
Mandyka, thanks for the Chopin hits. :)
Quote from: Bogey on January 14, 2011, 06:08:24 PM
Speaking of killer....it looks like one of your early images in this thread got axed, buddy. Could you redo it, as I have used your posts for reference.
Which post? The first post looks fine to me. :-\
Quote from: George on January 14, 2011, 06:28:59 PM
Which post? The first post looks fine to me. :-\
The later performances on this live DG CD one is not coming through at this end.....maybe just me?
Quote from: Bogey on January 14, 2011, 06:31:07 PM
The later performances on this live DG CD one is not coming through at this end.....maybe just me?
That's good. You don't want that set. ;D
OK, I'll fix it.
EDIT - Couldn't modify, so I reposted it below.
Rudolf Serkin's Beethoven - Because Serkin's Beethoven sonata performances are spread out over a number of different labels and at different points in his career, I have attempted to summarize and comment on these various releases. A few have been left out (on Pearl, Aura, etc), only because I haven't heard them yet, but if I can get a copy of these, I will add them to this review.
(http://ec2.images-amazon.com/images/P/B000002A8G.01._AA240_SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg)(http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/P/B0000CD5GS.01._AA240_SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg)(http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/P/B0000027P3.01._AA130_SCMZZZZZZZ_.jpg)
(http://ec2.images-amazon.com/images/P/B00008PW4C.01._AA240_SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg) This 5CD set on Columbia Legends contains all of Serkin's stereo Beethoven recordings for Sony, compiling the three releases pictured above it, except for the Fantasy from the Essential Classics CD and the 1960 Op. 110 from the "Unreleased Box." The 5CD has a later recording of Op. 110, from 1971. Much of this 5CD set is simply OK. This includes Op. 26, 31/1, 57, 78, 81a, 101 and 110. In these sonatas, his technical ability was either beginning to decline or had already declined. As for the better performances, I thought that the Op. 111 was far and away the best of the lot. His Serkinian power and solidity in the first movement led to a tender and profound second movement. The Moonlight, which also can be found coupled with his Appassionata, Pathetique and Les Adieux on a single disc was excellent. I thought the Op. 109, 22, 13, 10/2 and Hammerklavier were also excellent. I don't think I've heard anyone generate the wall of sound that Serkin creates at the start of his Hammerklavier. I was simply awestruck! This one is also available as a single disc (used) on Sony Essential Classics. His Op. 2/1 and 27/1 were not quite as good, but still recommendable and enjoyable. So overall, more strengths than weaknesses IMO, so I recommend the set as a whole. These recordings were made between 1962 and 1977. Luckily, many of them are available at an earlier point in his career when he was at his peak.
(http://musicandarts.com/CDpages/CD1141.jpg)For example, Op. 78 and 81a are available on a 2CD set by Music and Arts. These two performances are excellent and come coupled with the best Waldstein I have ever heard. The sound is certainly not as good as the Sony set, but with performances like these, one easy forgets the sound. The main redeeming feature of this set is the best Waldstein ever recorded, IMO. The Op. 110 in the 5CD set is eclipsed by his other stereo recording from 1960.
(http://ec2.images-amazon.com/images/P/B000002A8G.01._AA240_SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg) This 1960 Op. 110 is contained in this Sony 3CD set. Why Sony chose to include the later one in the 5CD set is beyond me. Unfortunately the only way to get this incredible performance is to buy the 3CD set, even though doing so results in duplicating much of the 5CD set. Nice move, Sony! Although only 11 years separate these 2 performances of Op. 110, the difference is like night and day! The 1960 performance is much better recorded and performed. The sound is warmer and more suitable to this sonata. The central movement has great power and rhythmic drive and elsewhere he has an uncharacteristic gentleness and depth of feeling that makes for a superb reading. The 1971 has much drier sound and little of the other redeeming qualities of the 1960 version. I think it was a terrible mistake for Sony to only include the 1960 finale in the 5CD set. At the least, they should have discarded the 1971 performance in favor of the 1960. Even stranger is the fact that Serkin himself did not approve of the 1960 performance for release.
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51-wRubQfcL._SL500_AA280_.jpg) The Op. 57 from the M&A set is also bettered in mono sound, this time here on this Sony CD. The remainder of this disc (in mono sound) is also excellent and deserves an unqualified recommendation. All of the performances better his later stereo recordings IMO. The transfers are better here than the M&A set, so the duplicated performances didn't bother me at all.
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51jXHpqvOLL._SL500_AA300_.jpg)The later performances on this live DG CD, are all bettered by earlier performances in his discography. It may be of interest to admirers of the pianist, but not a wise place to begin if just starting out.
If you are just beginning to collect Serkin's Beethoven, I suggest starting with the mono Sony and/or Music and Arts discs, as the performances are all excellent on these discs. The Sony has better transfers but the M&A has that stellar Waldstein. When I last checked, the M&A is available through Archiv Music. Then, if more is desired, the above 5CD Sony set is not too big an investment. However, I would not be without the 3CD set, for it has that incredible Op. 110 that is unique to that release. My experience with Serkin's Beethoven has shown me that his earlier performances are the ones to have.
Thanks!
(http://www.classical-and-c.com/CasalsBee.jpg)
Giving these a spin thanks to George reminding me of them yesterday. Very nice....Serkin as nimble and light as always is perfect to the contrast of Casal's deep strength on the strings. However, mine are on vinyl.
There have these cd issues:
[asin]B0000029L7[/asin]
1994
[asin]B0001BGV6A[/asin]
2008
I also have a handful of the Serkin/Casals here on this set (the same recordings):
(http://www.arkivmusic.com/graphics/covers/full/47/474373.JPG)
This set has
Op. 5 No. 1
Op. 102 No. 1
Op 102 No. 2
Vol II, which is a priority for me to get, does not cover any of the Serkin/Casals Cello Sonatas.
So my question is, how is the sound on the Sony complete releases?
(http://www.arkivmusic.com/graphics/covers/full/47/474373.JPG) (http://www.arkivmusic.com/graphics/covers/full/92/924287.jpg)
Back to the Prades for a minute and what they cover with Serkin:
Vol 1
Trio for Piano and Strings no 3 in G minor, Op. 110 by Robert Schumann
Performer: Sandor Végh (Violin), Rudolf Serkin (Piano), Pablo Casals (Cello)
Date of Recording: 07/11/1956
Trio for Piano and Strings no 5 in D major, Op. 70 no 1 "Ghost" by Ludwig van Beethoven
Performer: Rudolf Serkin (Piano), Pablo Casals (Cello), Szymon Goldberg (Violin)
Date of Recording: 06/18/1954
Trio for Piano and Strings no 6 in E flat major, Op. 70 no 2 by Ludwig van Beethoven
Performer: Szymon Goldberg (Violin), Rudolf Serkin (Piano), Pablo Casals (Cello)
Date of Recording: 06/18/1954
Sonata for Cello and Piano no 5 in D major, Op. 102 no 2 by Ludwig van Beethoven
Performer: Rudolf Serkin (Piano), Pablo Casals (Cello)
Date of Recording: 06/20/1954
Trio for Piano and Strings no 11 in G major, Op. 121a "Kakadu Variations" by Ludwig van Beethoven
Performer: Szymon Goldberg (Violin), Rudolf Serkin (Piano), Pablo Casals (Cello)
Date of Recording: 06/18/1954
Sonata for Cello and Piano no 1 in F major, Op. 5 no 1 by Ludwig van Beethoven
Performer: Rudolf Serkin (Piano), Pablo Casals (Cello)
Date of Recording: 06/20/1954
Sonata for Cello and Piano no 4 in C major, Op. 102 no 1 by Ludwig van Beethoven
Performer: Rudolf Serkin (Piano), Pablo Casals (Cello)
Date of Recording: 06/16/1953
Quintet for Piano and Strings in E flat major, Op. 44 by Robert Schumann
Performer: Rudolf Serkin (Piano)
Orchestra/Ensemble: Végh String Quartet
Date of Recording: 06/12/1956
Vol. 2 (Which I still need)
Italian Concerto, BWV 971 by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performer: Rudolf Serkin (Piano)
Date of Recording: 07/11/1956
Sonata for Piano no 30 in E major, Op. 109 by Ludwig van Beethoven
Performer: Rudolf Serkin (Piano)
Date of Recording: 06/20/1954
Symphonic Etudes for Piano, Op. 13 by Robert Schumann
Performer: Rudolf Serkin (Piano)
Date of Recording: 07/12/1956
This just started:
Trio for Piano and Strings no 3 in G minor, Op. 110 by Robert Schumann
Performer: Sandor Végh (Violin), Rudolf Serkin (Piano), Pablo Casals (Cello)
Date of Recording: 07/11/1956
Deep and fairly dark to start....Serkin's piano is very warm and fairly heavy in the openining. I would have not recognized it. Still a pleasure.
Quote from: Bogey on January 17, 2011, 11:06:38 AM
This just started:
Trio for Piano and Strings no 3 in G minor, Op. 110 by Robert Schumann
Performer: Sandor Végh (Violin), Rudolf Serkin (Piano), Pablo Casals (Cello)
Date of Recording: 07/11/1956
Deep and fairly dark to start....Serkin's piano is very warm and fairly heavy in the openining. I would have not recognized it. Still a pleasure.
Sounds nice, Bill!
Quote from: George on January 17, 2011, 11:10:16 AM
Sounds nice, Bill!
Indeed it is. I have ignored this set for far too long. I will have to see how his piano is on the other recordings.
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51Qd2qyUUyL._SL500_AA300_.jpg)
Got the day off from work due to the snow, so I am spinning this new purchase. These are all relatively early Serkin recordings, which seem to be his best work, so I am excited to hear them.
Quote from: George on January 27, 2011, 06:14:52 AM
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51Qd2qyUUyL._SL500_AA300_.jpg)
Got the day off from work due to the snow, so I am spinning this new purchase. These are all relatively early Serkin recordings, which seem to be his best work, so I am excited to hear them.
Sounds like an interesting set. Do give us your impressions please :o
Quote from: Verena on January 27, 2011, 09:46:35 AM
Sounds like an interesting set. Do give us your impressions please :o
Hi Verena,
So far so good. The Mozart is excellent. FWIW, I have yet to hear an early Serkin recording that didn't better a later one.
Quote from: George on January 27, 2011, 09:51:42 AM
Hi Verena,
So far so good. The Mozart is excellent. FWIW, I have yet to hear an early Serkin recording that didn't better a later one.
What Sony single cds does this cover, or do they, George?
Quote from: Bogey on January 27, 2011, 06:54:11 PM
What Sony single cds does this cover, or do they, George?
Hey Bill!
Serkin's discography is here - http://fischer.hosting.paran.com/music/music.htm
It shows that this is the first and only CD release of these performances.
Quote from: George on January 27, 2011, 09:51:42 AM
Hi Verena,
So far so good. The Mozart is excellent. FWIW, I have yet to hear an early Serkin recording that didn't better a later one.
Thanks very much, George! I must say that I also admire the later Serkin, though I never made any direct comparisons. For example, I rather like the Beethoven Concertos on Orfeo with Kubelik, but maybe the earlier recordings are better.
Quote from: Verena on January 28, 2011, 02:24:43 AM
Thanks very much, George! I must say that I also admire the later Serkin, though I never made any direct comparisons. For example, I rather like the Beethoven Concertos on Orfeo with Kubelik, but maybe the earlier recordings are better.
I like those too. I have really only compared early and late recordings of Beethoven sonatas, so I shouldn't have generalized.
Just won this auction last night. The Beethoven album I had, but it is in rough shape so the upgrade is welcomed. The 6 Eyed Monos usually have good sound, so I thought it worth the 10 bones with shipping.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rt=nc&nma=true&item=150552496023&si=XMlU6rrxS9b6RYuhnnaTtlmCVfM%253D&viewitem=&sspagename=STRK:MEWNX:IT#ht_759wt_1140
Quote from: Bogey on January 29, 2011, 05:19:10 AM
Just won this auction last night. The Beethoven album I had, but it is in rough shape so the upgrade is welcomed. The 6 Eyed Monos usually have good sound, so I thought it worth the 10 bones with shipping.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rt=nc&nma=true&item=150552496023&si=XMlU6rrxS9b6RYuhnnaTtlmCVfM%253D&viewitem=&sspagename=STRK:MEWNX:IT#ht_759wt_1140
Wow! Nice score Bill! :o
Quote from: George on January 29, 2011, 05:22:37 AM
Wow! Nice score Bill! :o
I RARELY buy vinyl on Ebay....without looking at the records and testing them like I can do in the shops here, it is a real crap shoot. And eye inspection does not always work either. I have a Dave Brubeck lp that I got for a decent price at a vinyl show and it looked minty. When I got home, it was unlistenable due to the micro dust(?) that I could not clean off or see.
Quote from: Bogey on January 29, 2011, 05:28:37 AM
I RARELY buy vinyl on Ebay....without looking at the records and testing them like I can do in the shops here, it is a real crap shoot. And eye inspection does not always work either. I have a Dave Brubeck lp that I got for a decent price at a vinyl show and it looked minty. When I got home, it was unlistenable due to the micro dust(?) that I could not clean off or see.
Yeah, I guess $10 for the three is a reasonable gamble. Good luck!
That's what I like about CDs, it's black and white. Either it plays fine or it doesn't.
This could have easily fit in the Schumann thread, but Serkin deserves a bump from time to time. ;D Now playing one of my all time favorite PC's:
(http://t0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSJGQVVEGxPY7iFM2bnFCX5Pshty9nup6TpClw5TjYansvZoOZCUjmNPrC8NA)
On a 6 Eye Columbia platter, this is the 2nd time he recorded it with Ormandy and Philly. This recording is from '56, while the other two were from '46 and '64. The performance is first rate by both Serkin and Philly. In mono, so for those who enjoy that era of Serkin, this is a must for your shelf. The recording allows Serkin the front seat and does not overly blend with the orchestra, which I enjoy here. Ormandy drives his players and the results are fantastic, especially in the first movement. I am guessing some here may have this on this cd:
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51j-73iBQLL._SL500_AA280_.jpg)
I am giving the cd a spin now and the sound of it does not begin to touch the lp. Closed in and muffles a bit with Serkin's playing more blended with the orchestra. Sometimes the cd trumps the lp....however, not in this case. Not sure if another cd version is available.
Quote from: Bogey on February 20, 2012, 12:50:47 PM
I am guessing some here may have this on this cd:
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51j-73iBQLL._SL500_AA280_.jpg)
Yep. 8)
(http://img.auctiva.com/imgdata/1/1/6/8/8/5/8/webimg/368824322_tp.jpg)
Now, No. 20 from Wolfie. Not as well engineered as the Ormandy Schumann, but Serkin's performance sparkles.
Interesting, this has to be the '57 recording listed here:
http://fischer.hosting.paran.com/music/music.htm
but my lp is numbered ML 5367. Either way, it looks as if this may not be on cd? What do you folks know? I do know that #21 made it on the Legendary set above, and other Schneider recordings, but cannot find a cd copy of 20.
Quote from: Bogey on February 20, 2012, 01:26:24 PM
(http://img.auctiva.com/imgdata/1/1/6/8/8/5/8/webimg/368824322_tp.jpg)
Now, No. 20 from Wolfie. Not as well engineered as the Ormandy Schumann, but Serkin's performance sparkles.
Interesting, this has to be the '57 recording listed here:
http://fischer.hosting.paran.com/music/music.htm
but my lp is numbered ML 5367. Either way, it looks as if this may not be on cd? What do you folks know?
That we're jealous of you. 8)
Quote from: George on February 20, 2012, 01:30:49 PM
That we're jealous of you. 8)
Odd though....not that the fact that you are jealous ;D....but that it is only on lp. If you look through the discography he only has two recordings not to make it on disc. This #20 and the Schumann PC with Ormandy in '46. Odd that neither made their way to cd.
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/31WGCYFF1EL._SL500_AA300_.jpg) (http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51wC-KbS5CL._SL500_AA300_.jpg)
What is the difference?
Bill, I don't know the box on top, but I have the box on the bottom and it contains some duplicates - for instance, a 1960 recording of Op. 110 which went unreleased for a very long time, to go with the more common 1970s recording. Then of course, the bottom box has the concertos and two different performances of the Choral Fantasy, one of them from Marlboro.
Don't forget the Diabellis and sundry klavierstücke.
Quote from: Bogey on January 05, 2013, 05:42:07 PM
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/31WGCYFF1EL._SL500_AA300_.jpg) (http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51wC-KbS5CL._SL500_AA300_.jpg)
What is the difference?
I think the difference is that one includes the piano concertos and the triple concerto too. In addtion Bagatelles and the Diabelli variations. The other just contains the sonatas that Serkin recorded for CBS. I have the box of sonatas. They are certainly well worth having. His playing can be a bit rough in places but there is an enormous authority and integrity with it. And Serkin was a tremendously exciting player of Beethoven's music.
There's an absolutely amazing, energetic, physical, bold, driven, edgy D958 here which I've only just discovered on spotify:
(http://c3.cduniverse.ws/resized/250x500/music/824/2599824.jpg)
Quote from: Mandryka on January 22, 2013, 10:02:24 AM
There's an absolutely amazing, energetic, physical, bold, driven, edgy D958 here which I've only just discovered on spotify:
(http://c3.cduniverse.ws/resized/250x500/music/824/2599824.jpg)
Not on any cds?
Quote from: Bogey on January 22, 2013, 03:40:52 PM
Not on any cds?
I have read that it is OOP, but it can be downloaded here (for those who
aren't in the USA) in MP3 format: http://www.classicsonline.com/catalogue/product.aspx?pid=1417504
And here worldwide (I think) in MP3 here: http://www.prestoclassical.co.uk/r/Archiphon/ARC-105
Quote
Serkin's very first sound recordings are from 1928. These original piano rolls have been digitally recorded on the Steinway Welte piano of the late Edwin Welte, founder and inventor of the Welte recording system.
,,The recital of the young Rudolf Serkin offers stereophonic sound which exceeds the interpretational aesthetic of all earlier piano roll recordings." (Handelsblatt)
,,The result: a glass clear, unsentimental Goldberg Variations (a work which Serkin once played - a full 32 minutes in length - as an encore); an extraordinarily austere, but in no way mechanical or insensitive Schubert Sonata; and, a rarity - as Serkin no longer played Chopin after 1940 - three Chopin Etudes." (Basler Zeitung)
Quote from: jlaurson on July 02, 2015, 02:17:33 AM
I know that the new, bare-bones set has excluded mono-versions wherever a stereo re-make existed... which I believe is *every* incidence. But if/where two stereo-remakes existed, I don't know if they put both on (such as with op.110) and that therefore it goes to reason that every recording that was in stereo on the "Unpublished" set is necessarily included on this set, too, or not.
Meanwhile, thanks much for your information which will be greatly helpful if we now can have someone compare those dates with the dates on their "Unpublished" set.
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51Q7SuT%2BijL.jpg)
Serkin - The Unreleased Studio Recordings - Except where noted, all sonatas were recorded at Columbia Records 30th Street Studio, New York City.
- Those sonatas with an asterisk were new to the Serkin discography when this set came out in 1994.
Op. 2/1 - October 7, 1970 *
Op. 10/2 - October 7, 1970 *
Op. 26 - December 8, 1970 *
Op. 27/1 - December 7, 1970 *
Op. 31/1 - December 8, 1970 *
Op. 53 - September 24-26, 1975 (recorded at Guilford, Vermont)
Op. 109 - June 8, 1976
Op. 110 - August 28, 1960 (recorded at Marlboro, Vermont (and the best Op. 110 I have ever heard))
Op. 111 - March 15-16, 1967
The 11 CD RS Plays B Sony budget box released in 2012 uses all the performances in the Unpublished box, plus a 1971 performance of Op. 110. The only other duplication involves PC4.
(Cross posted from the Sonatas thread)
Quote from: Jeffrey Smith on July 02, 2015, 07:54:57 PM
What set is the White Box?
(http://ec2.images-amazon.com/images/P/B00008PW4C.01._AA240_SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg) This 5CD set on Columbia Legends contains all of Serkin's stereo Beethoven recordings for Sony, compiling the three releases pictured above it, except for the Fantasy from the Essential Classics CD and the 1960 Op. 110 from the "Unreleased Box." The 5CD has a later recording of Op. 110, from 1971. Much of this 5CD set is simply OK. This includes Op. 26, 31/1, 57, 78, 81a, 101 and 110. In these sonatas, his technical ability was either beginning to decline or had already declined. As for the better performances, I thought that the Op. 111 was far and away the best of the lot. His Serkinian power and solidity in the first movement led to a tender and profound second movement. The Moonlight, which also can be found coupled with his Appassionata, Pathetique and Les Adieux on a single disc was excellent. I thought the Op. 109, 22, 13, 10/2 and Hammerklavier were also excellent. I don't think I've heard anyone generate the wall of sound that Serkin creates at the start of his Hammerklavier. I was simply awestruck! This one is also available as a single disc (used) on Sony Essential Classics. His Op. 2/1 and 27/1 were not quite as good, but still recommendable and enjoyable. So overall, more strengths than weaknesses IMO, so I recommend the set as a whole. These recordings were made between 1962 and 1977. Luckily, many of them are available at an earlier point in his career when he was at his peak.
You got me confuzzled, George!
Is there anything in the White Box not in the Masters budget box?
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51wC-KbS5CL._SY300_FMwebp_.jpg)
Quote from: Jeffrey Smith on July 02, 2015, 08:29:02 PM
You got me confuzzled, George!
Is there anything in the White Box not in the Masters budget box?
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51wC-KbS5CL._SY300_FMwebp_.jpg)
I don't know, I don't have the masters box.
From George's info in #69 I think the "white box" is a subset of the newer "Serkin plays Beethoven" box. What's missing either way are some mono recordings where I do not know about availability at all. I think there was a Music and Arts box with some of them; pretty sure that someone raved about a much better Waldstein than the late stereo one (but I am not avid enough as a Serkin collector to hunt for these things). I have a 1940s op.13 (as well as op. 109 and maybe another one) on a cheapo "membran" (or similar) issue that is even wilder than the early 1960s recording. Serkin was probably the first pianists (Schiff is another one) who played the repeat of the slow "grave" part in the first movement (it's philologically dubious either way but makes musical sense, I think) and overall I am quite fond of his interpretation of this sonata.
Jo498 - I wrote an extensive post that summarizes all of the Serkin Beethoven (mono and stereo) releases at the beginning of this thread. That's where the info about the white box came from. As I said in that post, I think the mono Serkin Beethoven sonata recordings all better their stereo counterparts.
Quote from: Jo498 on July 02, 2015, 11:27:35 PM
From George's info in #69 I think the "white box" is a subset of the newer "Serkin plays Beethoven" box. What's missing either way are some mono recordings where I do not know about availability at all. I think there was a Music and Arts box with some of them; pretty sure that someone raved about a much better Waldstein than the late stereo one (but I am not avid enough as a Serkin collector to hunt for these things). I have a 1940s op.13 (as well as op. 109 and maybe another one) on a cheapo "membran" (or similar) issue that is even wilder than the early 1960s recording. Serkin was probably the first pianists (Schiff is another one) who played the repeat of the slow "grave" part in the first movement (it's philologically dubious either way but makes musical sense, I think) and overall I am quite fond of his interpretation of this sonata.
Thank you! It seems I don't need the Legends since I have the Masters.
Quote from: George on July 03, 2015, 04:23:11 AM
Jo498 - I wrote an extensive post that summarizes all of the Serkin Beethoven (mono and stereo) releases at the beginning of this thread. That's where the info about the white box came from. As I said in that post, I think the mono Serkin Beethoven sonata recordings all better their stereo counterparts.
I agree especially the Waldstein which is peerless IMO
If you've the later Beethoven concertos try Serkin's recording of no 4 with Toscanini. An incredible performance that keeps you on the edge of your seat with Serkin showing fantastic virtuosity.
Quote from: DavidA on July 03, 2015, 12:44:48 PM
If you've the later Beethoven concertos try Serkin's recording of no 4 with Toscanini. An incredible performance that keeps you on the edge of your seat with Serkin showing fantastic virtuosity.
Ordered!
AFAIK, this recent release (pointed out to me by pi2000) hasn't been mentioned in this thread, and might be of interest for Serkin fans:
[asin]B00SUW5G9U[/asin]
The sound is actually quite good for a 1938 broadcast...
The historical recording would definitely be interesting.
But for a complete Beethoven concertos set with Serkin, this would be the obvious choice! :)
One of the very best cycles around anyway, IMO. The level of inspiration in the playing and conducting is unique.
[asin]B0009MZ5T0[/asin]
Q
Quote from: DavidA on July 03, 2015, 12:44:48 PM
If you've the later Beethoven concertos try Serkin's recording of no 4 with Toscanini. An incredible performance that keeps you on the edge of your seat with Serkin showing fantastic virtuosity.
Assuming that they only collaborated once, the recording on Spotify I listened to is in extremely poor sound and actually jumps ahead in a few places. Is this from 1936?
Quote from: Holden on July 04, 2015, 09:20:23 AM
Assuming that they only collaborated once, the recording on Spotify I listened to is in extremely poor sound and actually jumps ahead in a few places. Is this from 1936?
No, the RCA was recorded on November 26th, 1944. The 1936 is a radio broadcast from Carnegie Hall. It was his American debut.
I recently got the Music and Arts set with 1945-52 recordings of opp.13, 27/1, 53, 57, 77, 78, 81a and 109.
[asin]B0002UNQYU[/asin]
Unfortunately the sound truly sucks. In the 1945 Pathetique op.13 (which might be one of the most exciting recordings of that music, also probably the first one with the dubious repeat of the grave section) the sound is horribly clangy and tinny and the Appassionata is not much better. Fortunately it is better in op.53 and 109 but still below average for early 1950s, IMO.
I thought I was rather immune to mediocre historical sound but I really find this repellent and distracting for most of the set... I have opp.13, 27/1 and 109 in a cheapo membrane box and will compare them, also with the later stereo recordings. Not sure whether I'll keep this one.
One of my favourite recordings, regardless of the sound. The Waldstein is peerless IMO.
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81tP7eNpwKL._SL800_.jpg)
Ordered a copy of this 75 disc set this morning and amazon says it will be delivered today!
Set contents:
DISC 1: Brahms: Concerto No. 1 in D minor for Piano and Orchestra, Op. 15 (1946) Reiner
DISC 2: Beethoven: Sonata No. 14 in C-sharp minor for Piano, Op. 27, No. 2 "Moonlight" (1941) Beethoven: Sonata No. 8 in C minor, Op. 13 "Pathétique" (1945)
DISC 3: Beethoven: Concerto No. 5 in E-flat Major for Piano and Orchestra, Op. 73 "Emperor" (1941) Walter
DISC 4: Beethoven: Sonata No. 9 in A Major, Op. 47 "Kreutzer" Adolph Busch, violin Schumann: Quintet in E-flat Major for Piano and Strings, Op. 44 (1942) Busch Quartet
DISC 5: Brahms: Concerto No. 2 in B-flat Major for Piano and Orchestra, Op. 83 (1945) Ormandy
DISC 6: Schumann: Concerto in A minor for Piano and Orchestra, Op. 54 (1946) Ormandy
DISC 7: Beethoven: Trio No. 4 in D Major, Op. 70 "Ghost" Adolph Busch, violin; Hermann Busch, cello Beethoven: Fantasie in G minor, Op. 77 (1947) Beethoven: Sonata No. 24 in F-Sharp Major, Op. 78 (1947) Mendelssohn: Songs without Words, Op. 62 No 1, in G Major "May Breezes" (1947)
DISC 8: Beethoven: Concerto No. 5 in E-flat Major for Piano and Orchestra, Op. 73 "Emperor" (1950) Ormandy
DISC 9: Bach: Sonata No. 3 in G minor, BWV 1029 Pablo Casals, cello; Paul Baumgartner, piano Bach: Chromatic Fantasy and Fugue in D minor, BWV 903a Bach: Italian Concerto in F Major, BWV 971 Bach: Capriccio in B-flat Major, BWV 992 "On the departure of his most beloved brother" Bach: Toccata in E minor, BWV 914
DISC 10: Mozart: Concerto No. 20 in D Minor for Piano and Orchestra, K. 466 (1951) Ormandy Mozart: Concerto No. 22 in E-flat Major for Piano and Orchestra, K. 482 Casals
DISC 11: Beethoven: Sonata No. 14 in C-sharp minor for Piano, Op. 27, No. 2 "Moonlight" (1951) Beethoven: Sonata No. 26 in E-flat Major for Piano, Op. 81a "Les Adieux" (1951) Beethoven: Sonata No. 23 in F minor for Piano, Op. 57 "Appassionata" (1947)
DISC 12: Beethoven: Sonata No. 21 in C Major, Op. 53 "Waldstein" (1952) Beethoven: Sonata No. 30 in E Major for Piano, Op. 109 (1952)
DISC 13: Schubert: Trio No. 2 For Violin, Cello And Piano, Op. 100, D. 929 E-flat Major Adolf Busch, violin; Hermann Busch, cello Brahms: Trio in C Major, Op. 87 Adolf Busch, violin; Hermann Busch, cello
DISC 14: Beethoven: Concerto No. 3 in C minor for Piano and Orchestra, Op. 37 (1953) Ormandy
DISC 15: Brahms: Concerto No. 1 in D minor for Piano and Orchestra, Op. 15 (1952) Szell
DISC 16: Mozart: Quintet in E-flat Major for Piano and Winds, K. 452 Philadelphia Woodwind Quintet Beethoven: Quintet in E-flat Major for Piano, Oboe, Clarinet, Horn and Bassoon, Op. 16 (1953) Philadelphia Woodwind Quintet
DISC 17: Beethoven: Sonata No. 1 in F Major, Op. 5, No. 1 Pablo Casals, cello Beethoven: Sonata No. 5 in D Major, Op. 102, No. 2 Pablo Casals, cello
DISC 18: Beethoven: Sonata No. 2 in G minor, Op. 5, No. 2 Pablo Casals, cello Beethoven: 7 Variations on "Bei Männern, welche Liebe fühlen" (From "Mozart's Die Zauberflöte, WoO.46") Pablo Casals, cello Beethoven: 12 Variations on "Ein Mädchen oder Weibchen" (From "Mozart's Die Zauberflöte, WoO.66") Pablo Casals, cello Beethoven: 12 Variations in G Major on "See, the Conquering Hero Comes" from Handel's Judas Maccabaeus for Cello and Piano, WoO 45 Pablo Casals, cello
DISC 19: Beethoven: Sonata No. 3 in A Major, Op. 69 Pablo Casals, cello Beethoven: Sonata No. 4 in C Major, Op. 102, No. 1 Pablo Casals, cello
DISC 20: Beethoven: Concerto No. 1 in C Major for Piano and Orchestra, Op. 15 (1954) Ormandy
DISC 21: Beethoven: Concerto No. 4 in G Major for Piano and Orchestra, Op. 58 (1955) Ormandy Beethoven: Concerto No. 2 in B-Flat Major for Piano and Orchestra, Op. 19 (1954/5) Ormandy
DISC 22: Brahms: Concerto No. 2 in B-flat Major for Piano and Orchestra, Op. 83 (1956) Ormandy
DISC 23: Schumann: Concerto in A minor for Piano and Orchestra, Op. 54 (1956) Ormandy Strauss: Burleske in D minor for Piano and Orchestra, Op. 11 (1955) Ormandy
DISC 24: Mozart: Concerto No. 21 in C Major for Piano and Orchestra, K. 467 Schneider Mozart: Concerto No. 27 in B-flat Major for Piano and Orchestra, K. 595 (1955) Schneider
DISC 25: Schubert: Moments musicaux, D. 780 (Op. 94) Schubert: Sonata in C Major for Piano, D. 840 "Reliquie"
DISC 26: Mozart: Concerto No. 17 in G Major for Piano and Orchestra, K. 453 (1955) Schneider Mozart: Concerto No. 25 in C Major for Piano and Orchestra, K. 503 Szell
DISC 27: Mozart: Concerto No. 9 in E-flat Major for Piano and Orchestra, K. 271 "Jeunehomme" Schneider Mozart: Concerto No. 12 in A Major for Piano and Orchestra, K. 414 (1956) Schneider
DISC 28: Beethoven: 33 Variations on a Waltz by Anton Diabelli, Op. 120
DISC 29: Mozart: Concerto No. 23 in A Major for Piano and Orchestra, K. 488 Schneider Mozart: Concerto No. 16 in D Major for Piano and Orchestra, K. 451 Schneider Mozart: Concert Rondo in D Major for Piano and Orchestra, K. 382 Schneider
DISC 30: Mozart: Concerto No. 20 in D minor for Piano and Orchestra, K. 466 (1957) Schneider Mozart: Concerto No. 11 in F Major for Piano and Orchestra, K. 413 Schneider
DISC 31: Mendelssohn: Concerto No. 1 in G minor for Piano and Orchestra, Op. 25 Ormandy Mendelssohn: Concerto No. 2 in D minor for Piano and Orchestra, Op. 40
Ormandy
DISC 32: Brahms: Concerto No. 2 in B-flat Major for Piano and Orchestra, Op. 83 (1960) Ormandy
DISC 33: Reger: Piano Concerto in F minor, Op. 114 Ormandy
DISC 34: Brahms: Trio in E-flat Major for Horn, Violin and Piano, Op. 40 Myron Bloom, horn; Michael Tree, violin Schubert: Auf Dem Strom, Op. 119, D. 943 Benita Valente, soprano; Myron Bloom, horn
DISC 35: Brahms: Liebeslieder, Walzer Op. 52 Leon Fleischer, piano, Rudolf Serkin, piano, Benita Valente, soprano; Marlena Kleinman, contralto; Wayne Connor, tenor; Martial Singher, bass Schubert: Der Hirt Auf Dem Felsen, Op. 129, D. 965 Benita Valente, soprano; Harold Wright, clarinet
DISC 36: Beethoven: Concerto No. 5 in E-flat Major for Piano and Orchestra, Op. 73 "Emperor" (1962) Bernstein
DISC 37: Bartók: Concerto No. 1 for Piano and Orchestra Szell Prokofiev: Concerto No. 4 in B-flat Major for Piano and Orchestra, Op. 53 "For the Left Hand" Ormandy
DISC 38: Beethoven: Sonata No. 14 in C-sharp minor for Piano, Op. 27, No. 2 "Moonlight" (1962) Beethoven: Sonata No. 8 in C minor, Op. 13 "Pathétique" (1962) Beethoven: Sonata No. 23 in F minor for Piano, Op. 57 "Appassionata" (1962) Mendelssohn: Songs without Words, Op. 62 No 1, in G Major "May Breezes" (1962) Mendelssohn: Spinning Song
DISC 39: Mozart: Concerto No. 19 in F Major for Piano and Orchestra, K. 459 Szell Mozart: Concerto No. 20 in D minor for Piano and Orchestra, K. 466 (1961) Szell
DISC 40: Beethoven: Concerto For Piano, Violin, Cello And Orchestra, Op. 56 "Triple Concerto" Jaime Laredo, violin; Leslie Parnas, cello
DISC 41: Beethoven: Concerto No. 3 in C minor for Piano and Orchestra, Op. 37 (1964) Bernstein Beethoven: Choral Fantasy in C minor for Piano, Chorus & Orchestra, Op. 80 (1962) Bernstein
DISC 42: Brahms: Piano Quintet in F minor, Op. 34 Budapest String Quartet Schumann: Quintet in E-flat Major for Piano and Strings, Op. 44 (1963) Budapest String Quartet
DISC 43: Schumann: Concerto in A minor for Piano and Orchestra, Op. 54 (1964) Ormandy Schumann: Introduction and Allegro appassionato for Piano and Orchestra (Konzertstück), Op. 92 Ormandy
DISC 44: Beethoven: Concerto No. 4 in G Major for Piano and Orchestra, Op. 58 (1944) Toscanini Schubert: Am Tage Aller Seelen Handel: Israel in Egypt, HWV 54: "Dank sei Dir Herr!" (Arioso)
DISC 45: Beethoven: Concerto No. 4 in G Major for Piano and Orchestra, Op. 58 (1962) Ormandy
DISC 46: Beethoven: Concerto No. 1 in C Major for Piano and Orchestra, Op. 15 (1965) Ormandy Beethoven: Eleven Bagatelles, Op. 119
DISC 47: Beethoven: Concerto No. 2 in B-Flat Major for Piano and Orchestra, Op. 19 (1965) Ormandy Mozart: Concerto No. 27 in B-flat Major for Piano and Orchestra, K. 595 (1962) Ormandy
DISC 48: Bach: Concerto No. 1 in D minor for Three Pianos and String Orchestra, BWV 1063 Mieczysław Horszowski, piano; Ruth Laredo, piano Bach: Concerto No. 2 in C Major for Three Pianos and String Orchestra, BWV 1064 Mieczysław Horszowski, piano; Peter Serkin, piano Mozart: Concerto No. 10 in E-Flat Major for Two Pianos and Orchestra, K. 365 Peter Serkin, piano
DISC 49: Schubert: Sonata in A Major for Piano, Op. posth. (D. 959)
DISC 50: Mozart: Concerto No. 14 in E-flat Major for Piano and Orchestra, K. 449 Schneider Mozart: Concerto No. 17 in G Major for Piano and Orchestra, K. 453 (1962) Schneider
DISC 51: Brahms: Concerto No. 1 in D minor for Piano and Orchestra, Op. 15 (1961) Ormandy
DISC 52: Bach: Brandenburg Concerto No. 1 in F Major, BWV 1046 Casals Bach: Brandenburg Concerto No. 4 in G Major, BWV 1049 Casals Bach: Brandenburg Concerto No. 5 in D Major, BWV 1050 Casals
DISC 53: Brahms: Concerto No. 2 in B-flat Major for Piano and Orchestra, Op. 83 (1966) Szell
DISC 54: Schubert: Quintet in A Major for Piano and Strings, D. 667 (Op. 114) "The Trout" Jaime Laredo, violin; Philipp Naegle, viola; Leslie Parnas, cello; Julius Levine, bass
DISC 55: Brahms: Concerto No. 1 in D minor for Piano and Orchestra, Op. 15 (1968)
Szell DISC 56: Mendelssohn: Capriccio Brillante for Piano and Orchestra, Op. 22 Ormandy Schumann: Introduction and Concert Allegro for Piano and Orchestra, Op. 134 Ormandy Strauss: Burleske in D minor for Piano and Orchestra, Op. 11 (1966) Ormandy
DISC 57: Beethoven: Sonata No. 29 in B-flat Major for Piano, Op. 106 "Hammerklavier"
DISC 58: Beethoven: Sonata No. 28 in A Major, Op. 101 Beethoven: Sonata No. 31 in A-flat Major for Piano, Op. 110 (1971)
DISC 59: Mozart: Concerto No. 12 in A Major for Piano and Orchestra, K. 414 (1962) Schneider Mozart: Trio for Piano, Violin and Cello, K. 502 in B-flat Major Jaime Laredo, violin; Madeline Foley, cello
DISC 60: Reger: Sonata in C minor for Violin and Piano, Op. 139 P. Carmirelli, violin; Rudolf Serkin, piano Reger: Sonata in A minor for Cello and Piano, Op. 116* Mischa Schneider, cello; Peter Serkin, piano
DISC 61: Beethoven: Sonata No. 11 in B-Flat Major, Op. 22 Beethoven: Fantasie in G minor, Op. 77 (1970) Beethoven: Sonata No. 24 in F-Sharp Major, Op. 78 (1973)
DISC 62: Schubert: Sonata in B-Flat Major for Piano, Op. posth., D. 960 (1975)
DISC 63: Bach: Sonata No. 3 in E Major for Violin and Harpsichord, BWV 1016 Adolf Busch, violin Beethoven: Sonata No. 8 in G Major, Op. 30, No. 3 Adolf Busch, violin Beethoven: Sonata for Violin and Piano No. 1 in D Major, Op. 12 Adolf Busch, violin
DISC 64: Schumann: Sonata No. 1 for Violin and Piano in A minor, Op. 105 Adolf Busch, violin Schumann: Grand Sonata No. 2 for Violin and Piano in D minor, Op. 121 Adolf Busch, violin Beethoven: Sonata for Violin and Piano No. 10 in G Major, Op. 96 Adolf Busch, violin
DISC 65: Haydn: Sonata No. 3 in E-Flat Major, Hob. XVI: 49 Mozart: Rondo in A minor for Piano, K. 511 Beethoven: Sonata No. 26 in E-flat Major for Piano, Op. 81a "Les Adieux" (1977)
DISC 66: Schubert: Sonata in B-Flat Major for Piano, Op. posth., D. 960 (1977)
DISC 67: Brahms: Variations and Fugue on a Theme by Handel, Op. 24 Brahms: Intermezzo in B minor, Op. 119, No. 1 Brahms: Intermezzo in E minor, Op. 119, No. 2 Brahms: Intermezzo in C Major, Op. 119, No. 3 Brahms: Rhapsody in E-flat Major, Op. 119, No. 4
DISC 68: Schubert: 4 Impromptus, D.935, Op. 142
DISC 69: Reger: Variations and Fugue on a Theme of J.S. Bach, Op. 81 Haydn: Sonata for Piano in C Major, HOB. XVI: 50 Bach: Aria from Goldberg Variations, BWV 988 Bach: (14) Verschiedene Canones, BWV 1087
DISC 70: Beethoven: Trio for Piano, Clarinet and Cello, Op. 11 in B-flat Major Richard Stoltzman, clarinet; Alain Meunier, cello Beethoven: Quintet in E-flat Major For Piano, Oboe, Clarinet, Horn And Bassoon, Op. 16 (1974) Rudolph Vrbsky, oboe; Richard Stoltzman, clarinet; Robert Routch, horn; Alexander Heller, bassoon Beethoven: Variations On Wenzel Muller's Lied "Ich Bin Der Schneider Kakadu" For Piano, Violin, & Cello in G Major, Op. 121a Yuzuko Horigome, violin, Peter Wiley, cello
DISC 71: Beethoven: Sonata No. 1 in F minor, Op. 2, No. 1 Beethoven: Sonata No. 6 in F Major, Op. 10, No. 2 Beethoven: Sonata No. 12 in A-flat Major, Op. 26
DISC 72: Beethoven: Sonata No. 13 in E-flat Major, Op. 27, No. 1 (Sonata quasi una fantasia) Beethoven: Sonata No. 16 in G Major, Op. 31, No. 1 Beethoven: Sonata No. 21 in C Major, Op. 53 "Waldstein" (1975)
DISC 73: Beethoven: Sonata No. 30 in E Major for Piano, Op. 109 (1976) Beethoven: Sonata No. 31 in A-flat Major, Op. 110 (1960) Beethoven: Sonata No. 32 in C minor for Piano, Op. 111
DISC 74: Beethoven: Concerto No. 4 in G Major for Piano and Orchestra, Op. 58 (1974) Schneider Beethoven: Choral Fantasy in C minor for Piano, Chorus & Orchestra, Op. 80 (1981)
DISC 75: Chopin: 24 Préludes, Op. 28 Mendelssohn: Prelude and Fugue, Op. 35, No. 1
Quote from: George on September 21, 2017, 07:36:07 AM
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81tP7eNpwKL._SL800_.jpg)
Ordered a copy of this 75 disc set this morning and amazon says it will be delivered today!
What discography holes did this fill for you? I've got a lot of Serkin, but there are some gaps. (The two D960s recorded so close together - who has both?) I'm watching the price on this, hoping there's an algorithm glitch.
Quote from: Todd on September 21, 2017, 07:41:39 AM
What discography holes did this fill for you? I've got a lot of Serkin, but there are some gaps. (The two D960s recorded so close together - who has both?) I'm watching the price on this, hoping there's an algorithm glitch.
He apparently recorded the 4th LvB PC four times for Columbia!
I understand that there is some stuff in the box that has never been released before, plus I never picked up all of his old CDs. I definitely want all the early stuff, like the mono recordings.
And, buying this set will allow me to take down all my old Serkin CDs from the shelves and have space for future purchases. (I keep box sets on a different set of shelves.)
Quote from: George on September 21, 2017, 07:52:53 AMI understand that there is some stuff in the box that has never been released before
That's the thing for me. How badly do I really want these? As I type, I want them more. It might be best to not think about it.
Quote from: Todd on September 21, 2017, 07:54:57 AM
That's the thing for me. How badly do I really want these? As I type, I want them more. It might be best to not think about it.
Haha!!
I bought the set this morning, then cancelled it 20 min later. Then ordered it again 45 min later. :laugh:
I forgot to mention that the amazon.com review (there's only one right now) is quite detailed and very well done:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06XKWL779/ref=ya_st_dp_summary?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Quote from: Todd on September 21, 2017, 07:41:39 AM
I'm watching the price on this, hoping there's an algorithm glitch.
Sometimes they play games with the price on these, and start out higher and then drop. Often in Taiwan (where I live), they start at the price the US eventually comes down to. From the beginning this was about $150 here, rather than $192 or whatever Amazon charges, so I would expect it to fall to that price eventually.
Well, my new Serkin Complete Columbia recordings set was marked "delivered" by Lasership around 6pm today. I got home from work and it wasn't there. I live in a 24 hour doorman building and they reported that no one from Lasership had come today. At 8:30pm, I contacted amazon (I'm a Prime member) via chat and they offered to refund the entire purchase price plus $20. I accepted. Then I asked what should I do if it arrives, the customer service representative said I could keep it! Less than a minute later, I get a ring from the front desk. It had arrived, in great shape, no dings, etc. It is difficult typing this, I am still jumping up and down.
(https://s26.postimg.org/8st5xu7y1/Serkin_Cropped.png)
Now enjoying the first of Serkin's four Columbia recordings of the Brahms Piano Concerto 2. I usually don't like how orchestral recordings sound in mono, but this one (1945) was recorded quite well.
As for the sound in general on this set, I am happy to report that it is excellent! I have only heard the first five discs in full, but they sound great. I also have compared the sound on this set to about 10 prior releases of the same performances from Pearl, Naxos Historical and SONY. In each case, the new set sounds as good as, or better than prior CD releases.
(https://s26.postimg.org/8st5xu7y1/Serkin_Cropped.png)
Now enjoying some early Bach recordings (1947-1952) from the above set.
Serkin is at his best in his early recordings, I think. Up to 1970 or so his playing was incredible. His unauthorized Beethoven sonata recordings are among the very best. In fact, his unauthorized 1960 recording of Op. 110 is as good as it gets for that work.
Now that I have had some time with it, I have few more thoughts on this box. The CDs present the material in original jacket style, in order of release, which often is not the order of recording. I am finding the chamber work to be absolutely lovely. And his early solo Beethoven is direct and powerful. And an early recording of a Mendelssohn Song Without Words that is included is tenderly played. I am not as keen on the mono concerto recordings, as I find stereo to be far superior in conveying the complexities of an orchestra. Still, it is always a treat to hear the youthful Serkin, so I am enjoying these nonetheless.
Another point I will make comes from the accompanying booklet. It seems Sviatoslav Richter was an admirer of Serkin's playing. I hadn't heard that before, so I thought I would share it. Also, the booklet includes a discography complete with a list of the disc where each performance occurs, just as they did for Rubinstein. This is useful, as many works were recorded multiple times by the pianist. In fact, some, like Beethoven's PC4, were recorded as much as four times.
I have CDs 12 and 13 on the Music & Arts label which are LvB sonatas. I think you've also got that George. If so, how does the sound compare?
Quote from: Holden on October 02, 2017, 02:41:04 PM
I have CDs 12 and 13 on the Music & Arts label which are LvB sonatas. I think you've also got that George. If so, how does the sound compare?
The new set offers a sizable upgrade in sound. (IMO Music and Arts are frequently on the poor end of sound.)
Quote from: George on October 02, 2017, 02:33:19 PM
Another point I will make comes from the accompanying booklet. It seems Sviatoslav Richter was an admirer of Serkin's playing. I hadn't heard that before, so I thought I would share it.
As far as I can tell, Richter was a fan of all of the famous pianists of his era, except himself.
Quote from: George on September 21, 2017, 07:36:07 AM
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81tP7eNpwKL._SL800_.jpg)
Ordered a copy of this 75 disc set this morning and amazon says it will be delivered today!
Thanks,
George.....and congratulations. :D
I'm seriously going to consider it. This is a rare case of a pianist that I admire but never collected that much.
Look like a true treasure trove, despite the fact that the LvB piano concertos with Kubelik are not in there.... ;) (They are on Orfeo)
Q