Schumann: Fantasy, Op. 17; Liszt: Transcendental Etudes, Nos. 5,8,10,11,12
These works present severe challenges even to the most accomplished virtuosi, and Kissin comes through with flying colors. He responds to the Schumann, which requires both tenderness and passion, with exquisite sensitivity and power. If Kissin doesn't quite match the excellent versions byRichter,Arrau, andHorowitz, he does convey the ardent passion and volatility of the score. Kissin's Liszt is on a similar level; what it occasionally may lack in moments of tranquility is more than made up for with spontaneity and daring--few pianists before the public today take so many risks and emerge unscathed. Above all, this disc illustrates Kissin's pianistic mastery, his affinity for drama and color, and his sheer delight of engagement with the instrument. An immensely enjoyable disc.--Dan Davis