Philippe Entremont, Leonard Bernstein, Andre Watts, Seiji Ozawa - Rachmaninov: Piano Concertos Nos. 2 & 3 (1994) CD-Rip

These powerful performances of Rachmaninov's Concerto for Piano and Orchestra #2 in C Minor, Op 18 and #3 in D Minor, Op. 30 are AWE-INSPIRING: recorded almost a decade apart in the 1960s with the same orchestra but with different legendary conductors. These certainly are two of the most beautiful compositions ever written. Both Philippe Entremont and Andre Watts were at the very top of their game on these occasions, small wonder considering the company they were in, and it's just too bad audiences weren't there to enjoy them. These two piano virtuosos knocked it out of the park on these occasions, thanks in great part to the New York Philharmonic Orchestra and maestros Leonard Bernstein and Seiji Ozawa. There are other great performances of these compositions out there, but these two are my favorites.
Rachmaninov's Second Piano Concerto is beautifully rendered by Entremont/Bernstein using great technique, patience, and control: in particular during the 'Adagio' as Bernstein wrings each orchestral note for all it's worth, heightening the emotions wrought by Mr Entremont's artistry. Then comes the beauty and intensity of the 'Allegro' (with it's 3 beautiful passes through the theme which inspired popular music's "Full Moon and Empty Arms" ramping up the intensity and density with each pass) with Entremont brilliant both there and in the cadenza.
The powerful Watts/Ozawa interpretation of Rachmaninov's Concerto #3 is wonderous in it's beauty and deft navigation of this magnificent piece. The `Allegro ma non tanto' in particular is absolutely stunning. I've listened to it for decades and the effect is no less stunning each time. Some of young Mr. Watts' searing, clearly emotional two-handed power passages and arpeggios with the orchestra in direct support, or in planned hot pursuit, or Watts alone in the `split' cadenza are mesmerizing. Considering Rachmaninov's melancholy mood about the results of his first piano concerto, he more than recovered from it with these two amazing "tour de force" compositions and others. Absolutely brilliant and evocative, as presented here! The sound and presence are excellent. The multi-language liner notes are historically Rachmaninov-centric. Bravo, Philippe and Andre, and ladies and gentlemen of the orchestras! My Highest Recommendation! Five Brilliant Stars!