Rachmaninov: Variations on a theme of Corelli, Op. 42, etc.

2010

“Bernd Glemser is described in the booklet as having 'a particular affinity for the works of Sergei Rachmaninov'. And judging by this CD, that's not something to quibble with. This is a recording which allows you to concentrate purely on the music and the artist's interpretation, and not be distracted by any worrying deficiencies in recorded sound, piano tone or pianistic technique: it's all there. Glemser's golden, burnished sound is a treat for the ears in the Corelli Variations and, indeed, throughout.
The Piano Sonata No 2 is heard in its original version with a few references to and additions from the revised version. Glemser's impassioned reading is as tempestuous as it is heartfelt, among the most magnificent on disc. It is also a pleasure to hear the complete Morceaux – the famous C sharp minor Prelude is the second of the set (and a fine, fiery account it is, too) – the highlight of which is the Mélodie, No 3. A fleeting magical moment at 1'39" makes you catch your breath. The revised version of this and the Sérénade, No 5, concludes the disc, the former amounting to Rachmaninov's transcription of his own work. All in all, then, a disc to relish.”