Berlin Classics, in an apparent effort to streamline packaging of albums, has elected on this recording of the
Chopin piano concertos to completely do away with any liner notes at all. While an orchestra like the Gewandhausorcher and a conductor like
Kurt Masur may have reputations that precede them, pianists like
Annerose Schmidt may need a little more introduction. Not to mention the fact that listeners deserve to read a little bit about the music to which they are listening to make for a more well-rounded, intelligent experience. But it is what it is -- very bare bones. The orchestra lives up to its reputation, delivering a sparkling and energetic performance of an accompaniment by a composer who certainly isn't widely acclaimed for his orchestral writing.
Schmidt's playing is equally effective, though nothing spectacularly different than other choices on the market. Passagework is clean and articulate. Tempos of the outer movements of both concertos are brisk and exciting, but
Schmidt tends not to hold back on the velocity even in extended solo passages where a little more sensitivity and rubato might be preferred. By contrast, the second movement of the F minor concerto is quite lovely and sentimental, making up for its lack in the fast movements. For the money, listeners may prefer to go for an album complete with liner notes and a bit more colorful interpretation;
Olga Kern is an excellent alternative.