in Piano International (Jan, 2016)
This is a fine traversal of Rachmaninov’s three free-standings sets of variations, gathered round Trifonov’s brief, evocative tribute to his compatriot composer-pianist. The programme is laid out very effectively, opening with the overplayed Paganini Rhapsody and juxtaposing it with the earliest and most virtuosic set, based on Chopin’s Prelude No 20. The Corelli Variations (actually based on the anonymous tune La Folia) forms the finale after Trifonov’s Rachmaniana (2010).
Trifonov’s Rhapsody is not the quickest on disc, but is a crisp and tight account partnered by the Philadelphia Orchestra (which accompanied the composer in the first performances and recording) on fine form. This and the near-contemporaneous Corelli Variations are played straight …
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