Composer: Franz Liszt
Works: Piano Concerto no 1 in E flat major (S 124), Piano Concerto no 2 in A major (S 125), Mephisto Waltz no 1 (S 514), Grand Fantasia on La Campanella (S 420), Transcendental Study Harmonies du Soir (S 139 no 11)
Performers: John Ogdon (piano), Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra/Constantin Silvestri, BBC Symphony Orchestra/Sir Colin Davis
Recording: Colston Hall, Bristol (Piano Concerto no 1), Royal Albert Hall, London (Piano Concerto no 2), Queen Elizabeth Hall, London (Mephisto Waltz no 1), BBC Studios, London (Grand Fantasia on La Campanella, Harmonies du Soir)
Label: BBC LEGENDS 4089-2
Franz Liszt remains a polarizing figure within the pantheon of Romantic composers, oscillating between the realms of profound musicality and dazzling showmanship. His works, characterized by virtuosic demands and innovative structures, capture the spirit of an era that embraced both technical prowess and emotional depth. This newly released compilation featuring the late John Ogdon encompasses a selection of Liszt’s masterpieces, showcasing not only the composer’s multifaceted genius but also Ogdon’s extraordinary interpretative gifts during a period when his artistry was at its zenith.
Ogdon’s performance of the Mephisto Waltz no 1 is a striking exemplar of his ability to navigate Liszt’s labyrinthine textures with both fire and finesse. The interplay between the piano and orchestra emerges with a clarity that highlights the orchestral colors, while Ogdon’s explosive temperament brings the diabolical essence of the piece to life. His execution of the rapid figurations is both precise and expressive, underpinned by a palpable sense of drama. The technical challenges presented by the work are met with an astonishing ease, and Ogdon’s choice to emphasize the waltz’s grotesque character resonates deeply, allowing the listener to appreciate the underlying narrative of the composition.
In the contrasting landscape of the Piano Concertos, Ogdon shines particularly in the first concerto (S 124). Here, the structural integrity is maintained through his masterful command of the intricate passage-work, which is delivered with a clarity that vivifies Liszt’s orchestral textures. The Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra under Constantin Silvestri provides a warm backdrop, although at times the recording has a slightly ‘boxy’ quality that detracts from the overall sonic experience. Nonetheless, Ogdon’s glissandi and bold declamation dominate the foreground, seamlessly integrating with the orchestral fabric. The second concerto, while expertly rendered, lacks the same vibrant cohesion, partly due to the less focused orchestral sound from the BBC Symphony Orchestra, which is marred by pronounced brass that can distract from the piano’s contributions.
The technical demands of pieces such as the Grand Fantasia on La Campanella and Harmonies du Soir are formidable, yet Ogdon navigates their complexities with remarkable poise. His interpretation of La Campanella revels in the whimsical nature of the material, employing dazzling ornamentation that feels both natural and spontaneous. In Harmonies du Soir, the interplay of lyrical lines and intricate harmonies is executed with a serene mastery that speaks to Ogdon’s deep understanding of Liszt’s harmonic language. Here, the recording captures the nuances of his touch, allowing the listener to appreciate the subtleties of dynamics and articulation that are often lost in less accomplished performances.
This compilation serves as a testament to Ogdon’s legacy as one of Liszt’s most insightful interpreters. The recording quality, while variable across the different venues, ultimately does not detract from the profound musical experience that Ogdon delivers. His performances encapsulate the dualities inherent in Liszt’s music: the tension between virtuosity and introspection, between the flamboyant and the sublime. The disc is not merely a collection of works but a vibrant dialogue between composer and performer, where Ogdon’s artistry transcends the mere act of playing. For those seeking to engage with Liszt’s music at its most compelling, this collection stands as an essential addition to the discography, illuminating both the composer’s genius and Ogdon’s indelible mark on the art of piano performance.
