Dvorak: Piano Concerto; Schubert: 'Wanderer' Fantasy / Richter, Kleiber
These recordings show diverse aspects of the great pianist's approach. In the concerto, frequently played for its virtuoso effects, Richter emphasizes the gentler, lyrical aspects of the music, although there is plenty of power when it's required. The unusually assertive orchestral support under Kleiber is a strong asset. Richter's Schubert was usually very gentle, but here he seizes on the outgoing aspects of the music and plays more aggressively than usual--although there is no lack of song when it's required. Neither performance is "definitive"; both leave plenty of room for other approaches. But both are so engrossing that, as they play, one can't imagine another interpretation. There was room for more music on this disc, but what's here is choice.--Leslie Gerber