Sviatoslav Richter - Scriabin, Myaskovsky, Prokofiev: Works for Piano (Sviatoslav Richter Melodiya Edition Vol. 10) (1997)

This disc complements, rather than replaces, the hard to find but indispensable disc, Richter Plays Scriabin on Music & Arts. While the Etudes are also on that legendary disc, the program is far more extensive and includes jaw-dropping performances of an assortment of Scriabin Preludes as well as Sonatas 8 & 9. I mention that disc, because despite its later recording date (1972, Warsaw) the recording quality is not all that much better than this disc.

This disc is pretty typical of Melodiya's mono sound from the 1950s. The Scriabin dates from 1955 (fair sound) and faress worst in the Sonata 6 where there is tape overload during the climaxes. And the Myaskovsky and Prokofiev from 1958 (somewhat better sound). To pass on this recording due to the sound (as I did for years based on the previous reviewer's review) would be a shame. It's the performances, rather than the recording, that shine. And oh boy - do they ever! Richter was arguably at the peak of his musical powers. Listen to how he tears into the Scriabin Allegretto, Op. 65 No 2. Yes, there are a few coughs, but come on now, a TB clinic? Don't be absurd. I have been more distracted by coughing on some of the more recent BBC Legend performances. If you're going to allow coughs to dissuade you from hearing playing of this magnitude stick with Ashkenazy's recording's on Decca. You'll get great studio sound - but you'll miss the spiritual, magical, soulful nature of this music.

I probably shouldn't comment on the Myaskovsky since it is of little personal interest. But Richter reigns supreme in Prokofiev. If the Sonata 7 is your principle interest, then you may in fact be interested in pursuing other Richter performances with somewhat better recordings. Though, in all fairness, it should be noted that Poliini and Horowitz have deservedly legendary recordings of this same sonata.

So - for fans of Richter, this is a no brainer. A mesmerizing recital. But for fans of the composers, who may appreciate better recordings (or Richter neophytes who want to see what all of the fuss is about) I would start elsewhere.