CLARA & ROBERT SCHUMANN PIANO CONCERTOS – BEATRICE RANA & YANNICK NÉZET-SÉGUIN

In this breathtaking CD recording of Clara and Robert Schumann’s Piano Concertos, pianist Beatrice Rana and conductor Yannick Nézet-Séguin, together with the Chamber Orchestra of Europe, deliver an awe-inspiring musical journey that transcends time and touches the soul.

Clara Wieck’s Op. 7 Piano Concerto is a true gem, and Rana’s interpretation brings out the youthful brilliance and maturity of the composition. The opening Maestoso immediately commands attention with the orchestra’s rich, fulfilling sound, setting the stage for Rana’s exceptional performance. Her mastery of the thunderous octave passages is awe-inspiring, revealing a pianist of extraordinary technical prowess and artistic depth. But it is in the quieter moments that Rana truly shines, captivating listeners with her heartfelt rendition of the lyrical sections. The piano sings with a captivating bel canto quality at 1:13, infusing the music with a tender and melancholic charm that lingers in the heart. Rana’s seamless transition into the sprightly F major section is a testament to her musical finesse, making the listener feel as if they are witnessing a story unfold in real-time.

The Romanze is an enchanting movement that showcases Clara’s experimental harmonic genius, and Rana embraces the challenge with artistic maturity. Her piano creates a kaleidoscope of sonoric colors, bringing to life the various personalities of the music – from passionate and dreamy to contemplative and enigmatic. The dialogue between Rana and the cellist in the chamber-like duo is a testament to her remarkable musicianship, where she supports and weaves together with the cello, creating moments of breathtaking beauty.

As the Finale begins, Rana takes center stage with exhilarating intervallic runs and leaps that demand the utmost precision and dexterity. Her flawless technique shines through, leaving listeners in awe of her skill. The orchestra complements Rana’s vitality, adding a triumphant interlude at 4:28 that sets the heart racing with excitement and joy. The symbiotic relationship between the soloist and the orchestra creates a truly memorable and electrifying performance.

Turning to Robert Schumann’s Op. 54, Rana continues to display her versatility and artistic sensitivity. The opening dotted rhythms exude a sense of grandeur and majesty, although some may yearn for a touch more crispness in the figures. Nonetheless, Rana’s interpretation remains captivating, and her cadenza brings out the symphonic grandeur of the concerto’s most poignant moments.

The middle movement provides a delightful contrast, with Rana and the flute weaving together a delicate and enchanting tapestry of sound. The piano’s tone, mentioned earlier, adds to the allure, creating a sense of mesmerizing beauty throughout the movement. As the concerto reaches its Finale, Rana and the ensemble capture the dancelike rhythms with infectious gaiety. The suspenseful buildup toward the conclusion is masterfully managed, leaving listeners on the edge of their seats until the final, satisfying chord.

The CD also includes generous liner notes, featuring an insightful conversation between the artists and a concise but enjoyable musical analysis by Jed Distler. These additional materials enrich the experience, offering valuable insights into the concertos’ historical context and artistic nuances.

While the sound engineering is mostly commendable, there are moments in the Robert Schumann selection where it may sound slightly boomy or confined, but this minor quibble hardly detracts from the overall brilliance of the performances.

In conclusion, Beatrice Rana’s CD recording of Clara & Robert Schumann’s Piano Concertos, accompanied by Nézet-Séguin and the Chamber Orchestra of Europe, is a masterpiece of musical storytelling. Rana’s impeccable technique, artistic sensitivity, and emotional depth shine through, creating an unforgettable and transcendent musical experience. This recording is a must-have for classical music aficionados and newcomers alike, showcasing the enduring beauty and genius of these timeless piano concertos.