Ivan Moravec, Jiří Bělohlávek - Johannes Brahms - Piano Concertos Nos. 1 & 2 (2006)

This is a very convenient coupling of the two concertos played by Moravec and recorded in 1988 and 1989. The recordings need to be played at a slightly higher playback setting, 2 decibels or so, for them to have full impact. If this is not done the orchestral sound in particular can seem rather spongy, especially noticeable at the very start of the first concerto ans in particular as regards the lower strings and timpani. So long as the volume level is raised as suggested, the recording is OK.

Moravec delivers an unusually autumnal reading of the first concerto with an emphasis upon its lyrical side. This changes the anticipated nature of the concerto where a more dramatic reading with greater drive is more regularly presented. Consequently one is made far more aware of just how much of the concerto can respond to an approach that may not have been deeply considered by many listeners.

The second movement is particularly beautiful when performed in this way, but there are numerous instances in the outer movements where such attractions are effortlessly revealed and which are interpretively illuminating.

Those who know other discs by Moravec will be familiar with his blend of absolute technical security coupled with an enhanced awareness of sheer beauty, usually achieved through a wide range of touch nuances. This reading of the first concerto would be a valuable alternative for collectors to consider.

The second concerto is played in a mellow manner too but this time presenting the concerto with a stronger sense of forward momentum. Essentially though, this is a lyrical reading and as such is more along the lines of the famous Backhaus reading with the VPO conducted by Bohm. Those looking for a reading with drama and drive such as that presented by Richer and Leinsdorf will not find it here. Nor will they find the power of Gilels with the BPO and Jochum in either concerto. Angelich, on his two readings offers a closer match as a reading.

This is a fine pair of readings with much to offer the serious collector. Those looking for just one recording might do well to choose performances with are more dramatically driven. Those might be more regular in interpretation but they do not provide the more subtle insights that Moravec provides here in abundance.