I was looking for the Gieseking thread and after a search realized that we don't have one for him. Until now. :)
He has many great recordings that I enjoy. His early Debussy recordings (on Pearl or VAI), his Beethoven and his Songs Without Words by Mendelssohn are all favorites of mine.
This CD contains a very special recording of the Emperor concerto:
[asin]B000001OG6[/asin]
It was recorded in 1944, in stereo! From three amazon reviews:
QuoteThis is just about the most intense Beethoven "Emperor" Concerto on record, recorded in Berlin in 1944. Gieseking's playing is truly overpowering (in contrast, for example, to his 1951 recording with Karajan). The thoroughgoing organization and emotional logic and intensity of the orchestral contribution leads one to imagine that Furtwangler is on the podium in the Beethoven as well as the Schumann...The stereo (!) sound on the Beethoven is superior to most recordings of the time.
QuoteThe recording of Emperor Concerto on this CD is worth having not only for the wonderful performance, but also for the historical signifigance. This version of the Emperor Concerto was recorded in stereo on magnetic tape; at a time when this technology had just been invented and was still experimental. Also there was an air raid going on outside while this recording was being made. Listen closely on a good stereo system. There are a few places where you can hear the explosions outside.
QuoteListen to the anti-aircraft volleys at 1:57, 5:20, 13:29, and 16:43 (the cadenza) of the first movement (preferably with headphones, so you can turn up the volume to capture this haunting aural image) and then be prepared to be astonished by the performance of this magnificent work. Presumably it was recorded at night-when British aircrews flew solo sorties (as opposed to the American formation-flying during the day) at intervals which, to judge by the ak-ak, were from 3 to 3-1/2 minutes. Whatever the case, this is a spectacular confluence of art and history with the Greater Berlin Rundfunk Orchestra playing as if their lives depended on it.
__________________
So, what are you're favorite Gieseking recordings?
_______________________
George, I didn't even know about Walter Gieseking until Christmas Day, when I opened this:
(http://www.musicweb-international.com/classrev/2010/Oct10/BachWTC_Gieseking_8802014.jpg)
Good performance, it is in mono though.
Fairly brisk tempos, as the entire WTC fits on 3 disks.
Quote from: ChamberNut on January 13, 2011, 05:34:27 AM
George, I didn't even know about Walter Gieseking until Christmas Day, when I opened this:
(http://www.musicweb-international.com/classrev/2010/Oct10/BachWTC_Gieseking_8802014.jpg)
Good performance, it is in mono though.
Fairly brisk tempos, as the entire WTC fits on 3 disks.
Nice! I didn't even know that he had recorded them.
Gieseking is one of my favorites, and I enjoy a lot by him. His Debussy, both from the 30s and his last set on EMI – his recording of the Fantasie is still my favorite. (I'm hoping the 1951 Preludes get reissued some day.) His Grieg and Mendelssohn set on EMI is superb. His Emperor paired with Galliera is quite fine. Moving to the pirate labels or reissue specialists, there's his Scriabin, Schumann, Ravel (not his EMI recordings), even some Schubert. Hell, I even like his Mozart. I haven't been listening to much Gieseking lately as I've been exploring other things, but every time I pick up one of his discs, I enjoy what I hear.
I'm thinking I should try that WTC.
He was a bufferfly collector. I often think of him with a big net -- or pinning the dead things to a piece of card. And he was a fan of Schoenberg and Busoni, though AFAIK no recordings exist other than piano rolls.
Thinking of solo music, when he's at his best you feel that he's taken the whole work in one great big bite. The coherence and integrity of the performance is astounding. I think you can hear this in his acoustic Gaspard (on his Great Pianists) and the lovely Ravel Pavane on EMI. I enjoyed the Tombeau too -- but I can't remember why :-[
Other solo piano music where his records have become valued friends-- Mendelssohn's Songs without Words; Davidsbuendelertaenze (is there a live one?); the Op 110 on EMI (a recent find), the Brahms Op 76 and some of the later pieces and the first (pre war) Debussy preludes; the Waldstien and Appasionata from the 1930s and the pre war K457, the EMI Mozart German Dances and K394, the 1949 2nd and 4th English Suite. The Bach dances are good examples of his special "take the whole thing in a single bite" quality which I like so much. Has anyone heard his Partitas or French Suites?
At his worst he is a bit ungracious sounding. The 3rd English Suite from 1949 -1951 is a bit like that.
Or he's just too beautiful sounding. I can't listen to his Grieg. He makes those things into the most delicious, totally meaningless, bonbons imaginable.
To me, no one ever played Debussy like Gieseking. Other pianists (from Michelangeli to Bavouzet) tried an approach more structured, with themes more designed and phrased, but I miss the (at least apparent) spontaneity of Gieseking, as if the music was being created under his fingers. The Images, the Preludes, the Etudes, the Estampes, Masques, L'Isle joyeuse, and, in a lesser degree the Suite Bergamasque and Pour le piano are supreme models. In fact, with him, this was a music of moments, of details, when something was always happening, as we can hear in his interpretation of "Les cloches à travers les feuilles" or in the violence of "Ce qu'a vu le vent d'Ouest".
Quote from: Mandryka on January 13, 2011, 08:49:26 AM
Other solo piano music where his records have become valued friends-- Davidsbuendelertaenze (is there a live one?)
Don't know, but the one I have on ancient LP (Urania? Period? not sure of the label; will check later) is the performance that made me a fan of the music.
Actually, it was a very old Angel (British or early US pressing "half moon" recording angel label) of Gieseking's performance of the LvB Waldstein that first made me fall in love with that piece of music, as well. In fact, it spurred my very first "have to buy everything by this guy" response in my early days as a classical collector.
Cheers,
Dirk
I too became a fan of the Davidsbündlertänze because of Gieseking's recording - it was on a Saga LP then in the mid-60s, and even the other post-grads I shared the house with often sat around hypnotised by his playing - which is rushed and clangorous at the beginning of the work; I suppose it was an East (?) German radio performance which he just arrived for, sat down and played from memory. It has been reissued several times (I have two different transfers) and I remember 1947 being given as a date on one CD set (including other Schumann works as well). No other pianist has rendered the transcendently nostalgic quality of the last pieces like G, in my experience, not even Geza Anda (either of 2 performances I know). A few years before I had been living near Hamburg with a landlady who had studied under G (and was to edit the French version of Verdi's Don Carlos some years later, working at the Bibliothèque Nationale) - she told me that G never practised but recommended mentalising the fingering etc in silent study, which he did travelling between concerts. It was at that time that i grew to love Mozart's K.466 and 503 played by G with the Philharmonia conducted by Rosbaud (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q0JXKDnIaFo&feature=related) - only Casadesus/Szell rival them in the former IMO. Their earlier K 271 is also very fine. (Rosbaud should have a thread of his own: were he and Scherchen the the greatest all-round conductors of the last century?) There are stunning live recordings of Rachmaninoff's 2nd and 3rd piano concerti with Mengelberg - with his very poorly recorded Liszt #! among the greatest virtuoso performances captured on record, if imperfectly.
Quote from: dirkronk on January 14, 2011, 05:13:56 AM
Don't know, but the one I have on ancient LP (Urania? Period? not sure of the label; will check later) is the performance that made me a fan of the music.
Just checked: Urania. Copyright 1953.
FWIW,
Dirk
Quote from: Mandryka on January 13, 2011, 08:49:26 AM
Davidsbuendelertaenze (is there a live one?);
Quote from: mjwal on January 14, 2011, 08:31:47 AM
It has been reissued several times (I have two different transfers) and I remember 1947 being given as a date on one CD set
Quote from: dirkronk on January 14, 2011, 10:32:42 AM
Just checked: Urania. Copyright 1953.
Multiple LP and CD reissues of the Gieseking-Davidsbuendelertaenze give different dates and some Gieseking "discographies" just transcribe them, giving the impression of different performances / recordings. I've seen at least 5 different dates - Berlin 1942, 13 Jul 1947, Berlin Funkhaus 13 Set 1947, Saarbruken 12 Jul 1951 and 1953.
When I looked at my "versions" of the Gieseking-Davidsbuendelertaenze, collected over the years, I listened to 6 "different" recordings with these multiple dates. I hoped to get a different view of this most extraordinary interpretation - but unfortunately they were all the same performance with only different transfer/sound quality. I believe the most reliable source/date is probably the Berlin Funkhaus 13 Set 1947. If someone did ever listened to a different recording I would be most interested.
Quote from: ccar on January 14, 2011, 12:33:40 PM
When I looked at my "versions" of the Gieseking-Davidsbuendelertaenze, collected over the years, I listened to 6 "different" recordings with these multiple dates. I hoped to get a different view of this most extraordinary interpretation - but unfortunately they were all the same performance with only different transfer/sound quality.
Which one sounds the best?
Quote from: George on January 14, 2011, 12:56:22 PM
Which one sounds the best?
The sound of Gieseking-Davidsbuendelertaenze is a typical 1940's radio broadcast - some hiss and distortion but with the beautiful Gieseking tone fully recognizable. I would probably prefer the 1988 transfer from Forlane (UCD16590) - less filtering, more color and depth.
Quote from: ccar on January 14, 2011, 04:43:06 PM
The sound of Gieseking-Davidsbuendelertaenze is a typical 1940's radio broadcast - some hiss and distortion but with the beautiful Gieseking tone fully recognizable. I would probably prefer the 1988 transfer from Forlane (UCD16590) - less filtering, more color and depth.
Thanks. I'll keep an eye open (and hopefully my memory won't fail me when I am scanning the shelves of the used shops.)
Quote from: George on January 14, 2011, 04:47:29 PM
Thanks. I'll keep an eye open (and hopefully my memory won't fail me when I am scanning the shelves of the used shops.)
This new GMG gadget may help ;)
[asin]B0000713A5[/asin]
Quote from: ccar on January 14, 2011, 04:52:45 PM
This new GMG gadget may help ;)
Bought! Thanks very much! :)
Quote from: George on January 14, 2011, 04:56:51 PM
Bought! Thanks very much! :)
How are those Pearls that you picked up a while back, George?
Quote from: Bogey on January 14, 2011, 06:23:51 PM
How are those Pearls that you picked up a while back, George?
Only one was a Gieseking and I have yet to pop it in.
Quote from: George on January 14, 2011, 06:26:33 PM
Only one was a Gieseking and I have yet to pop it in.
Ah. Well.... ;D
Quote from: Bogey on January 14, 2011, 06:31:31 PM
Ah. Well.... ;D
I'll spin it over this long weekend and report back. (http://www.igrandtheftauto.com/forums/style_emoticons/default/salute.gif)
Quote from: ccar on January 14, 2011, 12:33:40 PM
Multiple LP and CD reissues of the Gieseking-Davidsbuendelertaenze give different dates and some Gieseking "discographies" just transcribe them, giving the impression of different performances / recordings. I've seen at least 5 different dates - Berlin 1942, 13 Jul 1947, Berlin Funkhaus 13 Set 1947, Saarbruken 12 Jul 1951 and 1953.
When I looked at my "versions" of the Gieseking-Davidsbuendelertaenze, collected over the years, I listened to 6 "different" recordings with these multiple dates. I hoped to get a different view of this most extraordinary interpretation - but unfortunately they were all the same performance with only different transfer/sound quality. I believe the most reliable source/date is probably the Berlin Funkhaus 13 Set 1947. If someone did ever listened to a different recording I would be most interested.
I started this thread in rmcr a while ago about this:
http://groups.google.com/group/rec.music.classical.recordings/browse_thread/thread/274bb3911f626be0/9caa5561834dfb74?lnk=gst&q=gieseking+davidsbundlertanze#9caa5561834dfb74
Steve Emerson's contribution is interesting, but the CD he mentioned was only available at the time at Berkeshire Record Outlet. They wouldn't deliver to the UK unless the order was larger -- so I didn't pursue it.
It's still there, for $3.99 -- if one of you yanks buys it and sends me the FLACS I'll happily repay -- if you can think of a way to make the repayment!
Quote from: Mandryka on January 14, 2011, 09:34:58 PM
I started this thread in rmcr a while ago about this:
http://groups.google.com/group/rec.music.classical.recordings/browse_thread/thread/274bb3911f626be0/9caa5561834dfb74?lnk=gst&q=gieseking+davidsbundlertanze#9caa5561834dfb74
Steve Emerson's contribution is interesting, but the CD he mentioned was only available at the time at Berkeshire Record Outlet. They wouldn't deliver to the UK unless the order was larger -- so I didn't pursue it.
It's still there, for $3.99 -- if one of you yanks buys it and sends me the FLACS I'll happily repay -- if you can think of a way to make the repayment!
Where is the link for the disc?
Quote from: Bogey on January 14, 2011, 09:42:15 PM
Where is the link for the disc?
Gotta be one of these two: http://www.berkshirerecordoutlet.com/search.php?row=0&brocode=&stocknum=&text=Davidsbundlertanze+Gieseking+Schumann&filter=all&cd=1&submit=Search
And I bet it's the Piano Library one.
Quote from: Bogey on January 14, 2011, 09:42:15 PM
Where is the link for the disc?
Here -- it's the Classico in Compact Cd on this web page
http://www.berkshirerecordoutlet.com/search.php?row=0&brocode=&stocknum=&submit=Find+Item&text=gieseking&filter=all
Quote from: Mandryka on January 15, 2011, 07:22:14 AM
Here -- it's the Classico in Compact Cd on this web page
http://www.berkshirerecordoutlet.com/search.php?row=0&brocode=&stocknum=&submit=Find+Item&text=gieseking&filter=all
Bill, if you order, can you get me one too? I will gladly reimburse you.
You are not able to order it at your end, George?
Also, give me the label Cat #.
Quote from: Bogey on January 15, 2011, 08:15:01 AM
You are not able to order it at your end, George?
Also, give me the label Cat #.
I am trying my best to minimize purchases and they have a minimum $$ amount on orders, IIRC.
This is the one that Mandryka is referring to: http://www.berkshirerecordoutlet.com/search.php?row=0&text=Gieseking+Schumann&filter=all&cd=1&Label=CLASSICO+IN+COMPACT&genre=&RPP=25&pprice=&submit=Search
Quote from: George on January 15, 2011, 08:17:39 AM
I am trying my best to minimize purchases and they have a minimum $$ amount on orders, IIRC.
This is the one that Mandryka is referring to: http://www.berkshirerecordoutlet.com/search.php?row=0&text=Gieseking+Schumann&filter=all&cd=1&Label=CLASSICO+IN+COMPACT&genre=&RPP=25&pprice=&submit=Search
Is that the one you want as well? (Just making sure.) (Now we just have to wait for Mandryka's reply here.)
Let me see what three would cost with shipping.
Quote from: Bogey on January 15, 2011, 08:33:12 AM
Is that the one you want as well? (Just making sure.) (Now we just have to wait for Mandryka's reply here.)
Yes, it is. It's the one that he suggested earlier in the thread.
Quote from: George on January 15, 2011, 08:35:06 AM
Yes, it is. It's the one that he suggested earlier in the thread.
I am at about $12....need 3 more bones. Let me give it a look. Are the two of you in a rush to get this one?
Quote from: Bogey on January 15, 2011, 08:39:47 AM
I am at about $12....need 3 more bones. Let me give it a look. Are the two of you in a rush to get this one?
Stuff over there doesn't often last for long, so it's wise to buy when they have it.
Quote from: George on January 15, 2011, 08:41:25 AM
Stuff over there doesn't often last for long, so it's wise to buy when they have it.
OK....let me look for something that I actually want, and not buying to buy.
Quote from: Bogey on January 15, 2011, 08:43:21 AM
OK....let me look for something that I actually want, and not buying to buy.
May I suggest this? Many here (esp Holden) would agree with me:
http://www.berkshirerecordoutlet.com/search.php?row=0&brocode=&stocknum=&submit=Find+Item&text=Fiorentino+Rachmaninov&filter=all
For Bill, I listened to this today:
[asin]B000000WN7[/asin]
Very nice Mozart, Excellent Brahms, Chopin Nocturnes at light speed :-[ and an exciting performance of Casella's Sonatina Op. 28.
All in all, recommended.
Quote from: George on January 15, 2011, 09:02:27 AM
For Bill, I listened to this today:
[asin]B000000WN7[/asin]
Very nice Mozart, Excellent Brahms, Chopin Nocturnes at light speed :-[ and an exciting performance of Casella's Sonatina Op. 28.
All in all, recommended.
Why?! Why?! Why?! Mountain Dew had not even come out yet?
Considering this Rach in place of the one you suggested. Any comments welcomed:
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51lFxm0hi0L._SL500_AA280_.jpg)
Quote from: Bogey on January 15, 2011, 09:06:18 AM
Considering this Rach in place of the one you suggested. Any comments welcomed:
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51lFxm0hi0L._SL500_AA280_.jpg)
I have the Music and Arts CD that that Archipel likely pirated to make their recording. I am not sure if they made any "improvements" on the sound, but the performance didn't leave much of an impression on me. Plus, you have the best Rach 2 ever already, Richter on DG. 8)
Quote from: George on January 15, 2011, 09:10:17 AM
I have the Music and Arts CD that that Archipel likely pirated to make their recording. I am not sure if they made any "improvements" on the sound, but the performance didn't leave much of an impression on me. Plus, you have the best Rach 2 ever already, Richter on DG. 8)
:D
Yes, but for $4?
Quote from: Bogey on January 15, 2011, 09:12:19 AM
:D
Yes, but for $4?
At this point in my collecting (and I think we have spoke about this) I don't buy anything for cheap prices that I wouldn't buy at full price. I have way too many great deals on my shelves that do nothing but collect dust and take up valuable real estate. :)
I'd say kick in the extra few bucks (at some point) and get one of (if not) the very best recordings of the Rach 3: http://www.amazon.com/Rachmaninoff-Piano-Concertos-Sergey-Rachmaninov/dp/B0000057LA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1295115382&sr=8-1
Either way, let's wait for Mandryka to chime in. I have to get going for a bit, then tonight I can pull the trigger. If anyone else is wanting one of these Gieseking discs, let me know. Might as well make one order of 'em and have everyone that wants to enjoy the music. :)
We'll figure out costs after I total it with shipping. If we can have one more person here to buy one, my order will be about $23 with shipping to my castle. Let's say a few more bones for me to send them out to each of you.....probably $8 or so a pop. Does this sound right, George?
Quote from: Bogey on January 15, 2011, 09:23:03 AM
Either way, let's wait for Mandryka to chime in. I have to get going for a bit, then tonight I can pull the trigger. If anyone else is wanting one of these Gieseking discs, let me know. Might as well make one order of 'em and have everyone that wants to enjoy the music. :)
We'll figure out costs after I total it with shipping. If we can have one more person here to buy one, my order will be about $23 with shipping to my castle. Let's say a few more bones for me to send them out to each of you.....probably $8 or so a pop. Does this sound right, George?
As right as rain. :) Thanks much! :)
Another two possible pairrings in case we need more material:
[asin]B00005RTH8[/asin]
or
[asin]B0000061FU[/asin]
Quote from: Bogey on January 15, 2011, 10:52:15 AM
Another two possible pairrings in case we need more material:
[asin]B00005RTH8[/asin]
I own this one. It's good, but I haven't been back to listen to it a second time, FWIW.
The other one looks good, but I haven't heard it.
George,
Is this the same as your '44 recording....I know it says '45 on this one, but were there two stereo tries around this time:
(http://www.arkivmusic.com/graphics/covers/full/53/533865.jpg)
http://www.arkivmusic.com/classical/album.jsp?album_id=91798
Quote from: Bogey on January 15, 2011, 11:14:25 AM
George,
Is this the same as your '44 recording....I know it says '45 on this one, but were there two stereo tries around this time:
(http://www.arkivmusic.com/graphics/covers/full/53/533865.jpg)
http://www.arkivmusic.com/classical/album.jsp?album_id=91798
Yes, the conductor and details (minus the dates) match up.
Re DBT
I managed to find this recording which purports to be live 1953. I can't hear any audience noise but 'live' may well mean 'live radio broadcast.' I don't think it's the same my other one, which is described as studio 1947. Timings and performance (he said warily) are different Here's a link for you:
http://www.mediafire.com/?z1ff9t7c809i5
So that leaves me completely confused about what the thing is at BRO -- can someone with a bigger brain than me please help?
Here's a present for all your encouragement. I'm sure you will enjoy the earlier recordings a lot -- the Debussy and Poulenc!
http://www.mediafire.com/?f6h731j420n9u
Bach. Partita № 1
1. Prelude (Zapis1939-40)
2. Sarabande ------ \ \ ---------
3. Minuet (Zapis10.09.1934)
4. Gigue . ----------. \ \ --------
5. Beethoven . Bagatelle E s, Op .33 № 1 ( Recording 11/08/1938)
Beethoven . Sonata № 20, Op .49 № 2 ( Record 1938-39)
6. Allegro non troppo
7. Tempo di Menuetto
Beethoven. Sonata № 30, or.109 (Zapis1939-40)
8. Vivace
9. Prestissimo
10. Andante
11. Brahms. Intermezzo in b , or.117 № 2 (Zapis1939-40)
12. Brahms. Capriccio FIS , or.76 number 1 (Recorded live 04.18.1956)
1 3 . Mandelson. Andante E Rondo capriccioso (Recorded live 18.04.1956)
Debussy (Recording 11/14/1928)
14. Arabesque number 1
15. Arabesque number 2
Poulenc. Mouvements perpetules (1924-25 Record)
1 6 . I
17. II
18. III
19. Chopin. Barcarolle, or.60 (Recorded 8/10/1938)
20. Fauré . Nocturne Es , or.36 № 4 (Recorded live 04.03.1949)
Scriabin. 4 plays, or.51 (Recorded live 30.10.1947)
20. Fragilite
22. Prelude
23. Poeme aile
24. Dance languide
I got this from infoclassics -- a Russian site. The guy who posted it also posted a lot of other interesting very early Gieseking recordings, but the links have gone dead. Did anyone download them? Vereena -- help!
Quote from: Mandryka on January 16, 2011, 12:30:25 AM
Re DBT
I managed to find this recording which purports to be live 1953. I can't hear any audience noise but 'live' may well mean 'live radio broadcast.' I don't think it's the same my other one, which is described as studio 1947. Timings and performance (he said warily) are different Here's a link for you:
http://www.mediafire.com/?z1ff9t7c809i5
There are some minor differences in timings between the "various" Gieseking-Davidsblundertanze. But in all the "versions" I listened the performance was actually the same - with only different sound/filtering and minor variations in the transfer speed.
I quickly listened to the first 9 'tanze' of this "live 1953" upload and compared it with the "other versions" - unfortunately Mandryka the transfer speed is only slightly increased (less than 5%) but, as far as I can listen, it also seems the same (1947 ?) performance - the most detailled source is a Berlin Radio tape from a Berlin Funkhaus broadcast on 13 Sept 1947. But I hope I'm wrong and maybe there is still another Gieseking-DBT version somewhere.
Quote from: Mandryka on January 16, 2011, 12:30:25 AM
I'm sure you will enjoy the earlier recordings a lot ... / ...
... / ... a lot of other interesting very early Gieseking recordings
[asin]B000000WXF[/asin](http://www.bach-cantatas.com/Pic-NonVocal-BIG/Gieseking-K04%5BPearl%5D.jpg) (http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B000000WN7.01.LZZZZZZZ.jpg) (http://www.classicalnotes.net/reviews/gieseking-pic.jpg)
(http://www.classicalnotes.net/reviews/gieseking-pic.jpg)
I have this one on the shelf. Stunning performances, IMO.
Ah -- I didn't know they were just Pearl CDs. That's easy to find then. Thanks.
Quote from: George on January 15, 2011, 09:17:45 AM
At this point in my collecting (and I think we have spoke about this) I don't buy anything for cheap prices that I wouldn't buy at full price. I have way too many great deals on my shelves that do nothing but collect dust and take up valuable real estate. :)
I'd say kick in the extra few bucks (at some point) and get one of (if not) the very best recordings of the Rach 3: http://www.amazon.com/Rachmaninoff-Piano-Concertos-Sergey-Rachmaninov/dp/B0000057LA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1295115382&sr=8-1
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41HZWBDTK6L._SL500_AA300_.jpg)
This one I would want on vinyl, buddy. Just how I
roll spin with the Mercury Living Presence. ;D
Quote from: Bogey on January 16, 2011, 03:56:12 AM
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41HZWBDTK6L._SL500_AA300_.jpg)
This one I would want on vinyl, buddy. Just how I roll spin with the Mercury Living Presence. ;D
Now playing....had it in the vinyl stash all along. I do not have the No. 2 though. Ah, something to track down.
Quote from: Bogey on January 16, 2011, 06:02:02 PM
Now playing....had it in the vinyl stash all along. I do not have the No. 2 though. Ah, something to track down.
Nah, you got Richter. You're good. $:)
Quote from: Bogey on January 15, 2011, 09:23:03 AM
Either way, let's wait for Mandryka to chime in. I have to get going for a bit, then tonight I can pull the trigger. If anyone else is wanting one of these Gieseking discs, let me know. Might as well make one order of 'em and have everyone that wants to enjoy the music. :)
We'll figure out costs after I total it with shipping. If we can have one more person here to buy one, my order will be about $23 with shipping to my castle. Let's say a few more bones for me to send them out to each of you.....probably $8 or so a pop. Does this sound right, George?
Are you still looking for the third man or has that (Prater) wheel been already set in motion?
If not too late I'd like to chip in for a copy of that Giesekings Davidsbundlertanze disc from Berkshire.
Quote from: Drasko on January 18, 2011, 03:15:36 AM
Are you still looking for the third man or has that (Prater) wheel been already set in motion?
If not too late I'd like to chip in for a copy of that Giesekings Davidsbundlertanze disc from Berkshire.
I'm 'in if you can either mail it to me in London or e mail me the FLACs
Wheels are already in motion....sorry about that. With Berk I had an itchy trigger finger as their stock goes quickly. Also, I had wanted to ammend my order a bit and no could do. These folks lock you down and toss the key. We'll see if everythiing arrives.
(http://g-ecx.images-amazon.com/images/G/01/ciu/90/97/460f4310fca0e338741c6010.L._SL500_AA300_.jpg)
Just arrived yesterday. The Bach was nice, but the Schumann Kresleriana is downright manic. I love it!
Quote from: George on January 23, 2011, 05:47:41 AM
(http://g-ecx.images-amazon.com/images/G/01/ciu/90/97/460f4310fca0e338741c6010.L._SL500_AA300_.jpg)
--- the Schumann Kresleriana is downright manic. I love it!
:D :D :D
Arrived:
[asin]B00005RTH8[/asin] [asin]B0000061FU[/asin]
and (no pic)
Schumann
Walter Gieseking
Davidsbundlertanze; Kinderszenen {both rec. 1951};
Piano Sonata #1 {rec. 1942}.
Quote from: Todd on January 13, 2011, 07:16:42 AM
Gieseking is one of my favorites, and I enjoy a lot by him. His Debussy, both from the 30s and his last set on EMI – his recording of the Fantasie is still my favorite. (I'm hoping the 1951 Preludes get reissued some day.) His Grieg and Mendelssohn set on EMI is superb. His Emperor paired with Galliera is quite fine. Moving to the pirate labels or reissue specialists, there's his Scriabin, Schumann, Ravel (not his EMI recordings), even some Schubert. Hell, I even like his Mozart.
Do you say that because it is unpopular to like his Mozart? I have been listening through his 8CD set on EMI for the second time and really enjoying it. I like that he recorded a lot of the shorter works that most pianists omit.
Quote from: George on October 13, 2014, 03:28:12 AMDo you say that because it is unpopular to like his Mozart?
Yes. There are some pianophiles out there who dismiss it for being Dresden Doll style - too pretty and precious - but I enjoy it.
Quote from: Todd on January 13, 2011, 07:16:42 AM
Gieseking is one of my favorites, and I enjoy a lot by him. His Debussy, both from the 30s and his last set on EMI – his recording of the Fantasie is still my favorite. (I'm hoping the 1951 Preludes get reissued some day.)
What are the dates on this set? Are they the same as the EMI? Do they have the Preludes you were looking for, Todd?
(http://store.acousticsounds.com/images/large/CWCL_559172_SA__96434__03042014011206-4538.jpg)
And while I'm here
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51OucT0njlL.jpg)
Looks like some Debussy from the late 40's on this set. Is this yet another performance outside of the 30's and the EMI?
http://www.amazon.com/Walter-Gieseking-Previously-Performances-Broadcasts/dp/B000050HYS/ref=tmm_acd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&sr=8-1-fkmr0&qid=1421678543
Quote from: Bogey on January 19, 2015, 05:35:31 AM
What are the dates on this set? Are they the same as the EMI? Do they have the Preludes you were looking for, Todd?
(http://store.acousticsounds.com/images/large/CWCL_559172_SA__96434__03042014011206-4538.jpg)
This is a remastered reissue of the mostly mid-50s Debussy. The '51 Preludes are not included.
Quote from: Bogey on January 19, 2015, 05:45:45 AM
And while I'm here
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51OucT0njlL.jpg)
Looks like some Debussy from the late 40's on this set. Is this yet another performance outside of the 30's and the EMI?
Those are radio recordings. They are worth hearing for the Scriabin alone.
Thanks. Were the '51 Preludes ever released on disc?
Quote from: Bogey on January 19, 2015, 06:55:12 AM
Thanks. Were the '51 Preludes ever released on disc?
According to this discography (http://fischer.hosting.paran.com/music/Gieseking/discography-gieseking.htm#Debussy), no.
Can you post the recording of these that does exist, buddy? Also, how many Emperors did he record? Just sampled a couple on YouTube. I believe one was from'34 and really enjoyed the first movement.
Quote from: Bogey on January 19, 2015, 08:11:44 AM
Can you post the recording of these that does exist, buddy? Also, how many Emperors did he record? Just sampled a couple on YouTube. I believe one was from'34 and really enjoyed the first movement.
The one that does exist you posted earlier.
As for your second question, the link I provided above will give you the info you seek.
Quote from: Bogey on January 19, 2015, 05:35:31 AM
What are the dates on this set? Are they the same as the EMI? Do they have the Preludes you were looking for, Todd?
(http://store.acousticsounds.com/images/large/CWCL_559172_SA__96434__03042014011206-4538.jpg)
I believe this is the same four disc set "Complete Piano Works" that was released by EMI years ago, except in new packaging and SACD format. That set contained both sets of Preludes. I don't think they were from 1951 but a few years later. Where were the 1951 Preludes recorded? Live concert/Radio Broadcast?
(https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51K4wBkeRrL._SL500_.jpg)
Now enjoying a first spin of this 2CD set. It was released last year and I am not sure how I missed it. I am a huge fan of APR's releases and this one is no exception. The transfers, by Andrew Hallifax, are open and the first time his very first set (1936-39) of the Debussy Preludes by Gieseking has been issued on CD in transfers that are this unfiltered. The second disc has tons of early Gieseking Debussy recordings from 1931-49. Of note, this first recording by Gieseking of the Debussy Preludes is not included in full in the Warner box set.
Quote from: George on February 17, 2023, 01:28:39 PM(https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51K4wBkeRrL._SL500_.jpg)
Of note, this first recording by Gieseking of the Debussy Preludes is not included in full in the Warner box set.
This is the same set as released on VAI, is it not? Just need to know if I need to buy more than the big box, which I will be acquiring in the near future.
Quote from: Todd on February 17, 2023, 01:49:02 PMThis is the same set as released on VAI, is it not? Just need to know if I need to buy more than the big box, which I will be acquiring in the near future.
Yes, same set as VAI but in much better sound.
Quote from: George on February 17, 2023, 01:54:44 PMYes, same set as VAI but in much better sound.
I can probably live with the VAI set - for the time being. I am getting ready to hear the '51 Preludes and then to do a Gieseking LvB cycle, sans Op 54, by combining the Tahra and EMI/Warner box. There are some other gems in there. I have been waiting to get my hands on some of the recordings for more than twenty years.
Quote from: Todd on February 17, 2023, 01:57:48 PMI can probably live with the VAI set - for the time being. I am getting ready to hear the '51 Preludes and then to do a Gieseking LvB cycle, sans Op 54, by combining the Tahra and EMI/Warner box. There are some other gems in there. I have been waiting to get my hands on some of the recordings for more than twenty years.
Correction - it is the Preludes in the APR that is the same as the VAI. Not sure about the rest. Here's the details:
(https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71H2CsszPlL._SL800_.jpg)
Quote from: George on February 17, 2023, 02:06:22 PMCorrection - it is the Preludes in the APR that is the same as the VAI. Not sure about the rest. Here's the details:
(https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71H2CsszPlL._SL800_.jpg)
It looks like all complete 30s sets are remasterings of the same recordings: http://trmsolutions.co.kr/music/Gieseking/discography-gieseking.htm?ckattempt=1#Debussy
I posted this in Box Blather on Feb. 1, as a potential buyer curious if anyone has any experience with it:
There are some complains on European Amazon websites about:
(https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81uE4CTYySL._SL1500_.jpg)
Apparently the remasterings of CDs 1-6 feature severe distortion, a digital "ringing" sound just above middle C.
Quote from: Brian on February 17, 2023, 02:59:37 PMApparently the remasterings of CDs 1-6 feature severe distortion, a digital "ringing" sound just above middle C.
I would guess all sets display the same problems. I will find out pretty soon.
https://www.prestomusic.com/classical/products/8022254--walter-gieseking-1933-1947
This is an excellent Gieseking recording
Re the APR stuff, I'd be interested to know what people make of the Chopin on this one
https://www.prestomusic.com/classical/products/8034666--walter-gieseking-the-complete-homocord-recordings-and-other-rarities
Quote from: Mandryka on February 18, 2023, 12:12:42 AMhttps://www.prestomusic.com/classical/products/8022254--walter-gieseking-1933-1947
This is an excellent Gieseking recording
Re the APR stuff, I'd be interested to know what people make of the Chopin on this one
https://www.prestomusic.com/classical/products/8034666--walter-gieseking-the-complete-homocord-recordings-and-other-rarities
The Nocturne Op. 9/3 sounds like the pianist had too much beer before the recording and was rushing off the the bathroom. The other nocturne is lovely, though. The other Chopin works I enjoyed, just to a lesser extent.
Quote from: Mandryka on February 18, 2023, 12:12:42 AMhttps://www.prestomusic.com/classical/products/8022254--walter-gieseking-1933-1947
This is an excellent Gieseking recording
Re the APR stuff, I'd be interested to know what people make of the Chopin on this one
https://www.prestomusic.com/classical/products/8034666--walter-gieseking-the-complete-homocord-recordings-and-other-rarities
I listened to the full Homocord set twice all the way through a while back as Gieseking in good transfers is not common. My impression of it was Gieseking just reading sheet music in single takes; there was virtually no interpretation. I posted that to another thread on another board discussing the Warner box set and someone that had the Warner box set said the same of the Homocord recordings. Overall there is more Gieseking that has left me unimpressed than impressed, but I keep coming back because of the greatest performance of the Tempest Sonata I've heard and a lesser extent the 1930s Debussy Preludes cycle.
Josef Hofmann is another pianist I can't listen to often for similar reasons (some exceptions where he sounds truly inspired), but at least with Hofmann you're treated to superhuman pianism.
Quote from: Atriod on June 17, 2023, 03:35:37 PMI listened to the full Homocord set twice all the way through a while back as Gieseking in good transfers is not common. My impression of it was Gieseking just reading sheet music in single takes; there was virtually no interpretation. I posted that to another thread on another board discussing the Warner box set and someone that had the Warner box set said the same of the Homocord recordings. Overall there is more Gieseking that has left me unimpressed than impressed, but I keep coming back because of the greatest performance of the Tempest Sonata I've heard and a lesser extent the 1930s Debussy Preludes cycle.
Gieseking's great strength is to do with making a sort of sweep of the music - it's as if the music sounds like a single thought from start to end of a movement. In the earlier recordings the result can be a feeling that the music is being created for the first time. Fresh and radiant music making.
Except for a small part of Gieseking's Mozart and Debussy I only know his Bach and Beethoven. Generally I agree with Atriod's remark about sight reading. Though some of Gieseking's Beethoven is worth a listen, but it is years since I listened to it.
Quote from: premont on June 18, 2023, 03:01:35 PMExcept for a small part of Gieseking's Mozart and Debussy I only know his Bach and Beethoven. Generally I agree with Atriod's remark about sight reading. Though some of Gieseking's Beethoven is worth a listen, but it is years since I listened to it.
His incomplete EMI Beethoven cycle is very good, I like it. I place it in the same tier as Pollini's cycle and like Pollini my main complaints about it are coming off as a bit cool in places, rushes some phrases that you'd wish would be played with a bit more tenderness, etc. But when I'm in the mood for Pollini or Gieseking in Beethoven they'll really satisfy. Gieseking plays with some imagination, just like Pollini. The Tempest Sonata that I like so much predates this cycle, it's from 1931. I have never heard a single pianist throw caution to the wind in this piece like he does, the closest I could think of would be if Rzewski stepped into a time machine. Sort similarly to how Pollini's recent recording of Debussy Preludes Book II had really blown me away; it's the complete opposite of the type of interpretations I really love (Michelangeli, Sasaki, Osborne, Ericourt, Beroff) and Pollini's tempos are too brisk. But the way he phrases things, lets the left hand thunderously echo for the briefest moments, all add up to something that sounds pretty inspired to me.
I liked Gieseking enough that I went out of my way to find the original Japan issued set which doesn't have the noise reduction of the regular US/European CDs that came out after it. This was
many years before the Complete Warner box set came out and I have no idea how these performances sound in that box.
(https://i.imgur.com/elrtggB.jpg)
I had the 4 or 5 CD Gieseking DG Bach box, I don't think I made it through it all even once. Just unimaginative.
Well some high points given that I'm not interested in concertos or Beethoven - Ravel, Grieg, Mendelssohn, Scriabin, 1949 op 111, Chopin op 15/2, Mozart K533, 1938 Chopin Barcarolle, Schumann Symphonic Etudes on the " previously unissued" performances on Music and Arts, Schumann DBT, possibly late Brahms, possibly Bach English Suites. I never really listen to the Debussy (not for any good reason probably), and I would like to get to know his Mozart solo better.
Can anyone recommend the best CD transfer of the Gieseking 1944 stereo Beethoven Emperor Cto.?
1944 stereo??
Quote from: Brian on April 14, 2025, 04:50:32 AM1944 stereo??
(https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81Fw3slGPVL._SL1465_.jpg)
Oh wow! Now I'm interested in the answer too 8)
Quote from: Brian on April 14, 2025, 05:50:35 AMOh wow! Now I'm interested in the answer too 8)
The first stereo recording was made by Bell Labs with Stokowski in 1932. Besides the Geiseking recording there is apparently a stereo Bruckner 8 recorded by Karajan in 1944.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stereophonic_sound#History