Composer: Pyotr Ilych Tchaikovsky
Works: Piano Concerto in B flat minor, Op. 23; Liszt: Etude in F minor, G. 57/2, “La Leggierezza”; Au bord d’une source; Hungarian Rhapsody No. 15 in A minor, “Rakoczy March”; Chopin: Polonaise No. 3 in A major, Op. 40/1 “Military”; Fantasie in F minor, Op. 49; Etude in F major, Op. 25/3; Etude in F major, Op. 10/8; Etude in A flat major, Op. 25/1; Polonaise in A flat major, Op. 53 “Heroic”
Performers: Solomon, piano; Hallé Orchestra conducted by Hamilton Harty
Recording: Recorded November 1929 and February 1930 in the Central Hall, Westminster, UK
Label: NAXOS HISTORICAL 8.110680
The historical significance of Solomon, a pianist who emerged from the East End of London, cannot be overstated. His playing, captured in this 2023 reissue, stands as a testament to an era where the art of piano performance was characterized by a deep sensitivity and a profound respect for the composer’s intentions. This disc features Solomon’s interpretation of Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto in B flat minor, a landmark work in the Romantic repertoire, alongside a selection of pieces by Liszt and Chopin. Each work offers the listener a glimpse into Solomon’s artistry, marked by a remarkable balance of virtuosity and musical integrity.
Solomon’s interpretation of the Tchaikovsky concerto is marked by a robust yet nuanced approach. The opening chords resonate with a commanding presence, establishing an immediate gravitas. His choice of tempo propels the first movement forward with an urgency that feels both impulsive and invigorating. At approximately 11:30 into the movement, one can hear how the pianist’s interpretive choices infuse the music with a febrile energy, creating a palpable tension. In contrast, around the 6:00 mark, where the score directs a “p dolce e molto espress,” Solomon’s touch softens to reveal a lyrical beauty seldom encountered in this work, showcasing his exceptional ability to shift between contrasting moods seamlessly.
While the technical demands of the concerto are met with impressive skill, it is Solomon’s artistry that truly captivates. The occasional imperfections in the thundering octaves do not detract from the overall effect; rather, they serve to humanize the performance, inviting the listener into an intimate experience with the music. The slow movement emerges as a revelation, wherein Solomon exhibits a poise that contrasts with the more fiery outer sections. The central section’s lightness of touch, a feat of interpretative mastery, conjures an ethereal quality, reminiscent of a delicate orchestral texture rather than the percussive strikes of a piano.
The collaboration with the Hallé Orchestra under Hamilton Harty is noteworthy. Harty’s conducting complements Solomon’s interpretation, creating a cohesive ensemble sound that enhances the emotional depth of the work. The orchestral accompaniment is finely molded, and Harty’s sensitivity to the soloist’s phrasing reveals a strong artistic partnership. The recording, restored by Mark Obert-Thorn, is a marvel of engineering that allows the listener to appreciate the nuances of Solomon’s playing despite the limitations of its era. The clarity in the restoration process is such that one often forgets the historical context, allowing the artistry to take precedence.
The accompanying recital of Liszt and Chopin further showcases Solomon’s abilities. His rendition of Liszt’s “La Leggierezza” displays not only technical brilliance but also a keen understanding of the music’s character, emphasizing the lightness and grace implied in its title. Similarly, in Chopin’s Etude Op. 10/8, Solomon navigates the rapid passages with a finesse that draws attention to Chopin’s compositional genius rather than the pianist’s technical prowess. While some of the interpretations may initially seem understated, they reveal a depth of subtlety upon repeated listening, further illustrating Solomon’s approach to these works.
This disc stands out not only for its historical significance but for the timeless quality of Solomon’s interpretations. The exceptional artistry on display, coupled with the high-quality restoration, makes this a compelling listen for both newcomers and seasoned aficionados of classical piano music. Solomon’s commitment to conveying the essence of the composers he interprets ensures this recording remains a vital addition to any classical music collection.
