Robert Schumann (1810-1856)
        Solo Piano Works

Kreisleriana, Op. 16 (1838) *
Fantasy in C, Op. 17 (1836-38)
Evgeny Kissin, piano
Recorded 1995, 1997 *
Released April 2004
RCA Red Seal Classic Library 59412 [67:21]

Comparison Recording: Annie Fischer/BBC Legends

Source of Recordings: This is a reissue of two Evgeny Kissin performances
originally issued a few years ago on different recordings.

Performer: Once a child prodigy, Kissin is now one of the most famous
pianists in the world.

Program: Two outstanding piano works from the Romantic era written by
Schumann when he was at the height of his artistic powers with imagination
that ran wild.

Performances: Just yesterday I read a review of the Kissin disc on the
Classics Today website that gave Kissin the highest rating, citing a
wealth of advantageous touches and the superb pianism.  I am less
enthusiastic, feeling that Kissin doesn't always reach the essence of
Schumann's music.  Specifically, he does not routinely convey all the
strength and tension of the alter-ego Florestan, and the interaction he
presents between Florestan and Eusebius could be much more contrasting.

Soundstage: Excellent except that the sound can be abrasive at times.

Don's Conclusions: A fine disc but not close to being one of the best
available of these works.  The exceptional Annie Fischer BBC disc not
only has the two works but also includes Kinderszenen.  For those wanting
The Fantasy in C and Kreisleriana, Fischer's recording is the one to
acquire.  Kissin's disc costs less, but you get less.

Don Satz
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