This 8-CD set contains the works for piano solo by Sergei Rachmaninoff, 20-th century romantic, one of the greatest pianists of all time himself. In his iconic piano works he expresses his deepest personal emotions, from ecstatic joy and tolling of bells, to Slavic melancholy and utter tragedy. Many of his works became standard concert repertoire: the 24 Preludes, the Etudes-tableaux, the Moments Musicaux, the two Piano Sonatas and the two Variations sets on themes by Corelli and Chopin.
This set brings together recordings by several of the best pianists of the younger generation: Alexander Gavrylyuk, Zlata Chochieva, Lukas Geniusas, Alexander Ghindin and Elisa Tomellini, all sharing their deep love and affinity for the Russian master. Also included are superb recordings by Santiago Rodriguez, one of the most idiomatic Rachmaninoff pianists of the 20th century.
The set presents additionally the complete works for piano duet and 2 pianos: the famous Suites Op. 5 and 17, the popular Symphonic Dances and several other rarities.
The press has been enthusiastic about these recordings:
Chochieva has a superb capacity for holding Rachmaninov's cantabile line aloft effortlessly, allowing it to take flight. (Gramophone), Chochieva is the possessor of a comprehensive technique who brings an inner glow to every bar. Her playing is indelibly Russian in its fullness and warmth, backed by a dauntless and easy command Gramophone.
GAVRYLYUK: Sunk in deep-dyed, all-Russian melancholy...magisterial command...soaring ease and lyricism Gramophone, CHOC de Classica (France).
GENIUSAS: Energy, virtuosity and a deep poetic feeling (Spiegel Kultur), You are left to wonder at his blaze of youthful virtuosity and aplomb Gramophone.