DGG RED STEREO Original. Sviatoslav Richter performs in Schumann's Piano Concerto, accompanied by the Sinfonie-Orchester der National Philharmonia Warschau, conducted by Stanislaw Wislocki. RED STEREO STICKER!
Record is EX+! Cover is EX! 

Schumann: Piano Concerto in A minor, Op. 54 – DGG Red Stereo ED1 138077 Featuring Sviatoslav Richter with Stanisław Wisłocki and the Warsaw National Philharmonic Orchestra

The DGG Red Stereo ED1 138077 LP features the legendary pianist Sviatoslav Richter performing Robert Schumann’s Piano Concerto in A minor, Op. 54, with the Warsaw National Philharmonic Orchestra under the direction of Stanisław Wisłocki. This Deutsche Grammophon recording is celebrated as one of the definitive interpretations of Schumann’s only piano concerto, noted for its lyrical beauty, romantic warmth, and subtle virtuosity. Richter’s emotional depth and technical precision, combined with Wisłocki’s sensitive accompaniment, make this LP a prized item for collectors and a benchmark recording of Schumann’s concerto.

About Sviatoslav Richter

Sviatoslav Richter (1915–1997) was one of the 20th century’s greatest pianists, known for his vast repertoire, powerful technique, and profound interpretative insight. Richter’s approach to Romantic repertoire, especially Schumann, Beethoven, and Brahms, is widely respected for its emotional intensity and intellectual depth. His performance of Schumann’s Piano Concerto is celebrated for its expressive warmth, clarity, and impeccable phrasing, showcasing his ability to balance Romantic lyricism with structural coherence.

About Stanisław Wisłocki and the Warsaw National Philharmonic Orchestra

Stanisław Wisłocki (1921–1998) was a respected Polish conductor known for his work with Polish orchestras and his deep understanding of Romantic music. His collaboration with Richter on this recording highlights his ability to provide a supportive and nuanced orchestral backdrop, allowing Richter’s interpretation to shine. The Warsaw National Philharmonic Orchestra provides a rich, full-bodied sound that complements the lyrical and dramatic qualities of Schumann’s composition.

The LP and Its Significance

Label and Pressing: This DGG Red Stereo ED1 pressing is highly valued by collectors for its audio fidelity and rare, early stereo pressing from Deutsche Grammophon. The recording captures the warm, resonant tone of Richter’s piano and the dynamic range of the Warsaw National Philharmonic, making it a valuable addition for classical collectors.

Sound Quality: The sound quality on DGG Red Stereo ED1 138077 is exceptional, with DG’s engineers capturing the clarity, warmth, and detailed textures of the piano and orchestra. The stereo imaging provides a spacious soundstage, enhancing the dramatic interplay between Richter’s piano and the orchestra. This LP is particularly appreciated by audiophiles for its balanced, immersive sound.

Collectibility: As an original DGG Red Stereo ED1 pressing, 138077 is highly collectible, especially for fans of Richter and Romantic piano concertos. The rarity of this edition, coupled with the renowned performance, makes it a sought-after item in the classical vinyl market.

About Schumann’s Piano Concerto in A minor, Op. 54

Composed in 1845, Schumann’s Piano Concerto in A minor is one of the most beloved works in the Romantic piano repertoire, known for its lyrical elegance, imaginative structure, and intimate dialogue between the piano and orchestra. The concerto’s three interconnected movements allow the soloist and orchestra to interact with fluidity and emotional depth:

Allegro affettuoso: The first movement opens with a dramatic orchestral introduction before the piano enters with a lyrical theme. The movement features flowing melodies and a sense of dialogue between piano and orchestra, highlighting Schumann’s poetic style.

Intermezzo: Andantino grazioso: The second movement is a light and lyrical intermezzo, with a gentle, song-like quality that showcases Schumann’s melodic gift and brings a contrast to the concerto’s more dramatic sections.

Allegro vivace: The finale is lively and energetic, featuring intricate passages and lively themes that bring the concerto to a joyful, spirited conclusion.

Richter’s interpretation of the concerto brings out its lyrical beauty and emotional intensity, balancing the delicate intermezzo with the dramatic and virtuosic sections.

Richter and Wisłocki’s Interpretation

Expressive Power and Clarity: Richter’s playing is marked by his clear articulation and expressive depth, particularly in the lyrical first movement. His interpretation brings out the emotional nuances of Schumann’s writing, blending Romantic expressiveness with precision.

Supportive and Sensitive Conducting: Wisłocki’s conducting provides a balanced and supportive foundation, allowing Richter’s interpretation to shine. The orchestra’s dynamic control and sensitivity create a cohesive and engaging performance, highlighting Schumann’s intricate orchestral textures.

Intimate Dialogue Between Piano and Orchestra: The collaboration between Richter and Wisłocki achieves a seamless interaction between piano and orchestra, with Richter’s expressive lines blending beautifully with the orchestral accompaniment. Their mutual sensitivity to phrasing and dynamics brings out the concerto’s intimate, conversational quality.

Why This Recording is Special

Definitive Performance: Richter’s interpretation of Schumann’s Piano Concerto is considered one of the definitive readings, celebrated for its emotional depth, technical mastery, and lyricism. His collaboration with Wisłocki adds another layer of depth, making this LP essential for any Schumann enthusiast.

High Audiophile Quality: The DGG Red Stereo ED1 pressing is known for its superior sound quality, capturing the warmth, clarity, and dynamic range of Richter’s performance and the Warsaw National Philharmonic’s orchestral support. This LP is a favorite among audiophiles for its natural sound and acoustic balance.

Collector’s Appeal: As an original DGG Red Stereo ED1 pressing, 138077 is highly valued by collectors. The combination of Richter’s authoritative interpretation, Wisłocki’s sensitive conducting, and the rarity of this pressing make it a prized item in the classical vinyl market.

Conclusion

The DGG Red Stereo ED1 138077 LP, featuring Sviatoslav Richter performing Schumann’s Piano Concerto in A minor with Stanisław Wisłocki and the Warsaw National Philharmonic Orchestra, is a landmark recording in the Romantic piano concerto repertoire. Richter’s expressive, technically masterful playing, combined with Wisłocki’s sensitive orchestral accompaniment and DG’s high-quality sound production, makes this LP a treasured possession for collectors and Schumann enthusiasts alike. Its historical significance, musical excellence, and collectible rarity ensure that this recording remains highly sought-after in the world of classical vinyl collecting.

Record Grading I use the following grades: M/M- Only for still sealed or certain unplayed records NM    Should look very close to unplayed EX+   With very few signs of use EX     Some light signs of use but nothing that should affect the    listening experience VG+   A really nice LP with some signs of use and the can be the odd light click, but nothing major at all VG    There are clear signs of use and there can be some recurring clicks and crackles, but not continously.  G       There are many marks and lines and you should expect that the listening experience will be hampered. But still playable. + and - are used for nuances. P/F    Very rarely used. Only very rare records will be listed in this condition
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