Beethoven: Piano Concertos

 

When this Beethoven piano concerto cycle from Norwegian pianist Leif Ove Andsnes first came out, quite a bit of positive attention was showered upon it. His view of Beethoven throughout these concertos is definitely restrained with a strong focus on clarity and cleanliness. The restraint has nothing to do with tempo, however, as sometimes he gives fleet readings, such as in Piano Concerto no. 1 in C Major. Instead, these are emotionally muted.

Some of this might be due to the smaller numbers in the Mahler Chamber Orchestra, where their lighter sound is well rounded, yet hardly weighty or portentous. This is particularly noticeable when the pianist is in the limelight, as the orchestra is feathery light, almost unnoticeable, especially in pizzicatos. The ensemble also uses reduced vibrato, another choice I am not wild about.

But what I am describing is probably the exact viewpoint of these performers; it just isn't for me. Andsnes does particularly well in the lyrical and pastoral moments in Beethoven, working best for me in Piano Concerto 4 in G Major, where the nature of its music on the whole works in favor of the pianist's style. Contrastingly, soloist and orchestra come together to put on a rather good Choral Fantasy, although the clunky nature of that work will hardly attract listeners.

On the other hand, Piano Concerto no. 2 in B-flat Major simply made me sleepy, so underplayed was its music. Piano Concertos 3 & 5 had spirit of sorts, but I simply yearned for some mojo, chutzpah, or spontaneity from the players on hand. Something to tell me these musicians had more to say in this music than the notes Beethoven quilled onto parchment.

My go-to for the piano concertos by Beethoven has long been Rudolf Serkin, although there are countless fine interpretations available for every set of tastes. Those who enjoy a slimmed-down Beethoven from modern times will want to get their hands on Andsnes' Beethoven post-haste; this just isn't my preferred style.

 

 

Works
Piano Concerto 1 in C major, op. 15 (32.44)
Piano Concerto 2 in B-flat Major, op. 19 (29.30)
Piano Concerto 3 in C minor, op. 37 (35.24)
Piano Concerto 4 in G Major, op. 58 (34.00)
Piano Concerto 5 in E-flat Major, op. 73 (37.45)
Fantasy in C minor 'Choral', op. 80 (18.36)

Soloist
Leif Ove Andsnes, piano

Performers
Prague Philharmonic Choir (op. 80)
Mahler Chamber Orchestra

Label: Sony
Year: 2012-2014; 2019
Total Timing: 3.07.59

 

While my 3CD set of Beethoven piano concertos from Leif Ove Andsnes will be going to the local charity shop, library sale, or second-hand store, that doesn't mean I don't recognize its qualities.

Foremost is Andsnes' impeccably clean technique, one which I imagine some will greatly enjoy. For my tastes, the pianist is too understated, and the orchestra too lightweight to make much of an impression upon me.

If that is your kind of Beethoven, however, you will find it in spades here!

Find more Beethoven recordings HERE!