The packaging on
these Virgin Classics reissues leaves much to be desired. The
lack of recording dates and locations is the least of the problems
(there is a (p) date of 1986). The booklet is just a slip of
paper with work details and timing, plus the most general of
booklet notes on each work.
Pletnev’s playing
has at least the capacity to be more of less instantly recognisable.
Sometimes the rather twee, narcissistic phrasing actually comes
under the heading of ‘musical’, but more often than not it
feels false. This is almost Mozart arranged by rather
than played by Pletnev. The cadenza of the last movement Jeunehomme meanders
hopelessly; not that the pianist is off the leash, while the
timing for the second movement is 12:08 – despite a clear Andantino marking
from the composer! Any excuse to intervene, to impose, is enough
for Pletnev. This is a shame as the orchestra is clearly a
good one whose freshness has been dulled - the first movement
of the same concerto is rather workaday despite ample evidence
of professionalism and ability. The Jeunehomme is one
of the present writer’s favourite Mozart concertos. To hear
it demeaned in this fashion is almost painful. Only the finale
comes close to the acceptable. Pletnev’s speed for the faster
section is rather headlong, but he has the fingers to articulate
clearly.
The depth and profundity
of the C minor is rather glossed over here. Individual niceties
may exist - some effective ppps - but the fact remains
that the best is heard when the orchestra is alone. The orchestral
exposition at least hints at the greatness of this work. If
the finale has fair energy, the slow movement’s predictably
inward-looking preening spoils any chance of a recommendation.
The recording itself
is good but no credits are given; ironic as it is the best
aspect of this issue! Retailing at lower-mid price is no excuse
for the cheap presentation of this disc; companies such as
Naxos achieve far better at super-budget level. Disappointing
on every single level.
Colin Clarke
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Deutsche Kammerphilharmonie/Mikhail
Plentev (piano) 
