Composer: W.A. Mozart
Works: Piano Concerto No. 1 in F K.337, Piano Concerto No. 5 in D K.175, Piano Concerto No. 18 in Bb K.456
Performers: Sviatoslav Richter (piano), Japan Shinsei Symphony Orchestra, Rudolf Barshai (conductor)
Recording: Suntory Hall, Tokyo, Japan, 3 March 1993
Label: Laurel Records LR-902
The legacy of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart is a vast tapestry of musical innovation and emotional depth, woven through a life that ended tragically early. The three piano concertos presented in this recording, which span his formative years, reflect a trajectory from youthful exuberance to the sophisticated lyricism of maturity. Sviatoslav Richter’s interpretation of these works, particularly in the context of his final concert, reveals a profound engagement with Mozart’s innate charm and complexity. While the title “The Last Concert” may mislead one to assume it is a farewell, it serves instead as a testament to Richter’s enduring artistry.
Richter’s approach to the Piano Concerto No. 1 in F K.337 is marked by an infectious buoyancy, a quality that encapsulates the playful spirit of Mozart’s early genius. The opening movement is characterized by a bright, clear articulation of the main theme, with Richter’s fingers dancing effortlessly over the keys, bringing out the delightful interplay between soloist and orchestra. The Japan Shinsei Symphony Orchestra, under Rudolf Barshai, provides a vibrant backdrop, particularly in the woodwinds, whose contributions are both delicate and expressive, enhancing the overall buoyancy of the performance. The second movement, with its poignant contrasts, allows Richter to showcase his lyrical sensibility, navigating the emotional terrain with a delicate touch that underscores the music’s inherent tenderness.
The Piano Concerto No. 5 in D K.175, while less frequently performed than some of Mozart’s later works, receives a revitalizing interpretation here. Richter’s decision to forgo a cadenza in the finale is notable; this omission, while incomplete in the traditional sense, creates an intriguing sense of immediacy and focus on the orchestral dialogue. The absence invites listeners to engage more deeply with the orchestral textures and the thematic development rather than being distracted by virtuosic display. The clarity of the orchestration is highlighted by the recording’s slightly bright sound quality, which, while at times excessive, allows for the intricate exchanges between piano and orchestra to shine.
In the more mature Piano Concerto No. 18 in Bb K.456, Richter’s interpretative depth emerges fully. Here, his playing is imbued with a reflective quality, conveying both the grandeur and the intimacy of the work. The dialogue between the piano and the strings is particularly compelling; Richter’s phrasing is expansive yet controlled, allowing the lyrical lines to unfold naturally. The orchestra, under Barshai’s direction, matches this sensitivity, providing a rich harmonic foundation that enhances the emotional weight of the music.
The engineering quality of the recording, while occasionally revealing a slight over-brightness, captures the nuances of Richter’s touch and the ensemble’s sound, allowing for a detailed listening experience. Compared to other notable recordings of these concertos, such as those by Pollini or Argerich, Richter’s interpretations stand out for their introspective nature and emotional honesty rather than sheer technical bravado.
Richter’s legacy as a deeply sensitive artist resonates through these performances, which reflect not only his technical prowess but also his unique interpretative voice. The combination of his distinct sound and the orchestral colors provided by the Japan Shinsei Symphony Orchestra under Barshai results in a compelling listening experience that honors both the composer and the pianist. As we listen to this recording, we are reminded of the profound impact that Richter had on the art of piano performance, and how his interpretations continue to inspire and provoke thought. This recording is a valuable addition to the catalog of Mozart’s piano concertos, capturing a moment in time that, while retrospective, remains vibrantly alive.
