In a recent post I wrote:

>I would recommend you two fabulous Schumann cd.
>1. Radu Lupu playing Humoresqe, Kinderszenen and Kreiserina on Decca
>2. Bostridge/Drake Dichterliebe om Emi

When I wrote that I hadn't heard the Lupu for ages.  Inspired by the
discussion on Schumann I have returned to it, and I am stunned.  This
probably the finest piano playing I ever heard.  I'm not a big fan of
Schumann's paino music, but listening to this record almost makes me one.
Lupu combines the most poetical sensibilties with the force of a lion (or
perhaps a wolf, I have heard that Lupu is the Romanian word for wolf,
correct me if I'm wrong), he makes the piano sing in a way that is almost
unbelievable (just listen to the second part of the Kreisleriana and you
will no what I mean), his phrasing and shift of dynamics is so sensitive.
His playing in the more powerful and virtuostic parts is also a delight,
he has a fabulous technique, but it all serves the music, he does not
show off.

I have heard other fine records with Lupu, but this one is in a class of
its own. A must for lovers of great pianism.

Patrik Enander
Goteborg, Sweden
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