Rachmaninov & Prokofiev: Piano Concerto No. 3, Cliburn (CD)

“Cliburn’s patient, lyrical approach to the score provided a refreshing alternative . . . [his] huge hands most assuredly grasp the composer’s massive chords and serpentine textures.” — Classics Today

The beloved pianist Van Cliburn presents two tremendous Russian piano concertos. Recorded live at Carnegie Hall in 1958, Rachmaninov’s Piano Concerto No. 3 is an unusual departure from his previous two concerti, alluding to the more freeform style he would adopt for his Fourth. Prokofiev’s explosive Third is a favorite of virtuosic pianists around the world, with this recording serving as its benchmark.

Rachmaninov Piano Concerto No. 3 in D Minor, Op. 30
Kirill Kondrashin conductor
Symphony of the Air
1958, Carnegie Hall, New York City
1959 Grammy® Award, Best Classical Performance–Instrumental Soloist

Prokofiev Piano Concerto No. 3 in C Major, Op. 26
Walter Hendl conductor
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
1960, Orchestra Hall, Chicago

Discs: 1
Record Label: RCA
Release Date: June 16, 1987