CONNOISSEUR SOCIETY CS 2097-99 LISZT: THE HUNGARIAN
$
60
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Description
CZIFFRA PLAYS LISZT
THE HUNGARIAN RHAPSODIES
Nos. 1-6
Nos. 7-12
Nos. 13-16 and No. 19
GYORGY CZIFFRA
CONNOISSEUR SOCIETY
CS 2097, volume 1
CS 2098, volume 2
CS 2099, volume 3
STEREO
Fabulous 1976 3-volume set of Connoisseur Society records in separate sleeves. All were licensed from Pathe Marconi - EMI recordings. CS grey-and-black label. The LPs are MINT and appear unplayed. Surfaces are smooth and retain their original lustre. There is no sign of spider tracery around any of the spindle holes. All of the jackets are MINT and spotlessly clean.
Cziffra was a unique pianist, a virtuoso, something that is unheard of these days. Few pianists of the last century could match his speed and energy. Horowitz could in his prime, and Raymond Lewenthal.
Cziffra, with his superb technique, Hungarian birthright and virtuoso flair, is the ideal exponent of the Hungarian Rhapsodies. Liszt compositions are extremely difficult to master. It isn't simply a matter of getting the notes right; it's about ornamenting the music in the tradition of the romantics. Cziffra, despite his seemingly outrageous fluctuations in tempo and alterations to the score, provides the most thrilling and technically dazzling readings of these pieces. He plays them as an extravert, with wit, finesse and wild abandon. Although you may think he's out of control, he's anything but. He's just making music faster than your brain can process the sound. It's artistry, not sensory overload.
These recordings are perhaps the most characteristic of his playing. The Rhapsodies lend themselves to exuberant expression and taking liberties, not only with tempo and rhythm but even with the score itself. Just because notes are written on sheet music doesn't mean you have to play them as they read. Editing and ornamenting are what gives a virtuoso style. And Cziffra had plenty of it. His playing was absolutely breathtaking. It's a joy to hear! If you love piano music, this set is a must!
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More records coming in the following weeks, meanwhile have a look at my Other Items For Sale currently being offered. Treasures abound.
Good luck bidding!
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