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It might seem like a strange thing to recommend, but for me the most impressive performance on this disc is the oldest, a 1926 recording of Balakirev's 'Islamey'. There are three other versions (Gavrilov, Katchen, Ogdon) in the Philips Great Pianists and this one makes the most music out of Balakirev's knucklebuster. The sound is absolutely amazing for its time (with a lot of inobtrusive help from Philips' engineers). You will be amazed at the variety of piano tone, faithful to Arrau's legendary touch, in such an old recording.

Also on the first of these two discs is an inward 'Chromatic Fantasy and Fugue', by Bach. And Liszt's 'B,n,diction de Dieu dans la solitude' played slowly and intensely; this piece can lose momentum, but not in Arrau's hands.

The second disc is all Brahms: the Paganini Variations, both books, and a majestic First Concerto, played more slowly than we may be used to. The Variations are stunning. The Concerto will not be to everyone's tastes because of the solemn first movement, but in my opinion it works because of the tonal nuance and musical phrasing Arrau brings to it. The second movement is a beautiful song, and the third a rollicking conclusion.

This CD contains many difficult pieces. But Arrau is a perfcet. He does all that the composer needs. There might be someone who criticize this recording. So, I would say something more. Hmm, As you know, Arrau doesn`t likes to play 'the more'. (It doesn't mean he doesn't play emotionally.) Of course, he CAN play in more fast tempo to please audiences, he CAN play to sound more technically. But is it really the right way of music interpretation? Absolutely No. Listeners may want pianists to play here like this, there like this. But this is wrong. There are many people who listen to the music. So,There is a standard of music. (I didn't say I ignore colors, characters) The one who gives this record only 4 stars may want Arrau to become Liszt. (I can compose, and I have an absolute pitch. So beieve me.) Amazimg pieces are waiting for you. Have a nice day !~

P.S. : But I recognize that some pieces were recorded in bad conditions. A little hissings. But I don't care. (Think what is important and what is not important.)

Arrau is one of the very few pianists who has fantastic touch and crystalbright, brilliantly beautiful sound, whatever he plays. If you want to listen Brahms' Paganini variations with strong intensity and brilliant dynamic differences, every single note played with care, buy this CD. In Liszt's Spanish Rhapsody Arrau shows his breathtaking virtuoso skills, but also so beautiful sound and so different colours in different sections in the piece. True master of music, excellent recording.