Piano Concerto in A minor

Edvard Grieg

A minor

Recordings

Top Choice

Leon Fleischer / George Szell / Cleveland Orchestra

1960

Gil's prime recommendation for the pairing (w/ Schumann). 'Just electric.' Combines an exciting, dramatic opening with poetic artistry in the slow movement.

Also Worth Hearing

Solomon / Herbert Menges / Philharmonia Orchestra

1956

A great, 'more demure version' (paired w/ Schumann). Poetic, sensitive, with beauty and warmth, but still powerful. Good stereo sound.

Radu Lupu / André Previn / London Symphony

1970s

A strong contender (paired w/ Schumann). Mixes power and poetry. 'Beautifully recorded, very sumptuous sound.' A plush, romantic interpretation.

Stephen Kovacevic / Sir Colin Davis / BBC Symphony

1971

A top choice (paired w/ Schumann). Similar to Solomon, it 'picks their spots,' emphasizing beautiful, poetic parts while still ending powerfully.

Dinu Lipatti / Alceo Galliera / Philharmonia Orchestra

1947 Mono recording

Paired w/ Schumann. Dim, 1940s sound, but worth it for Lipatti's 'magical artistry.' An exciting pianist.

Clifford Curzon / Øivin Fjeldstad / London Symphony

1959

Grieg only. A wonderful version with 'wonderful Decca sound.' Has 'immediacy, such presence' (the opening 'leaps out'). Combines powerful virtuosity with a beautiful touch.

Wilhelm Backhaus / Sir John Barbirolli / New Symphony Orchestra

1933 Historic recording

Grieg only. 'The most exciting Grieg concerto recording of all.' Despite dim sound, it's 'on fire.' Backhaus 'just plays lights out'.