tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-644158760598157015.post4276781032637525122..comments2024-03-20T20:18:55.808-04:00Comments on pArts: Portland Symphony: From Russia With LoveSharkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06354556120599729324noreply@blogger.comBlogger2125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-644158760598157015.post-32360114294226567452011-01-26T22:41:44.551-05:002011-01-26T22:41:44.551-05:00While I don't disagree about the rehearsal tim...While I don't disagree about the rehearsal time, this is a problem typical of many orchestral concerts around the globe. I had little problem hearing the pianist at almost any given time (seated in balcony), though twice - but briefly - felt him slightly covered, but briefly and barely. I don't really like comparing live performances with studio recordings (of which that Argerich is my favorite). <br /><br />I'd agree that the Shostakovich was the best played work of the evening. I've heard Rostropovich conduct this a number of times and felt many similarities in last night's approach. <br /><br />I enjoyed the Schwartz, but understand the sentiment.<br /><br />Cheers,<br /><br />p.Sharkyhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06354556120599729324noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-644158760598157015.post-67876451242618942572011-01-26T21:53:08.363-05:002011-01-26T21:53:08.363-05:00Hi,
I just listened to Argerich and Abbado, in a ...Hi,<br /><br />I just listened to Argerich and Abbado, in a recording from 1967, playing the Prokofieff 3rd, just to compare with last night's performance. First of all, the PSO could have used a little more rehearsal time with the pianist. He was constantly rushing while the orchestra tried to keep up. Secondly, I thought the orchestral playing was just not nuanced, and too one-dimensional. Thirdly, I believe the orchestra overpowered the pianist very often, making it difficult to hear him. <br /><br />The Shostakovich was much better played. The largo was very convincing.<br /><br />The Schwartz? The less said the better.<br /><br />Just my not-so-humble opinion. <br /><br />Regards,<br /><br />Bevan DaviesBevan Davieshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04117748858592188905noreply@blogger.com