Zeev Schor writes:

>I have not heard as yet any mention of the relatively new performances
>of some of Mozart's Piano Concertos by Richard Goode and the Orpheus
>Chamber Orchestra (Nonesuch).  Is there any reason for it?

For my part, I have not mentioned the Goode series because I'm not
particularly enamored of Goode's performances.  I find his poetry sometimes
lacking, and strong projection can be a problem.  However, I think that the
Orpheus Chamber Orchestra is wonderful in these works.  They are incisive,
display great momentum and drive, and give well-proportioned and exciting
readings.

Having said the above, there are many sources which have declared the Goode
series as one of the best on the market.  I don't see that at all, but the
series, through consensus, is very highly rated.  Goode is also highly
regarded in his Beethoven piano sonata cycle; I don't share that opinion
either, and in that repertoire, Goode doesn't have the offsetting support
of a great chamber orchestra.  Goode is always tasteful and pleasureable,
but both Mozart and Beethoven offer much more than those qualities.

Don Satz
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