The Brahms Second Piano Concerto is one of the most ferociously difficult concertos in the repertoire. The funny thing is that when it's played well, it almost sounds easy. I've always loved the Ashenazy/Haitink/VPO recording, and I've been lucky enough to hear such pianists as Ax, Watts, and Ohlsson perform it live. I think it was Ax who said, "With the Brahms concerti, you have to be lucky as well as good." This young lady is phenomenal. I love how her playing isn't all about technique, but is about the music. That said, her technique is astounding.
However, it is a little bit strange nowadays to see Valery Gergiev performing. The one that always stands up for Putin, even in this Ucrainan war. I have always loved his conducting, but where is the limit? For me, this time, I have set him on rehearsel, he has to rehearse Russian history and make some other conclutions than he has so far.
He did indeed say that in an interview with a German newspaper when he played it in Frankfurt. Needless to say, he was very good and as lucky as he needed to be.
I had the incredible privilege of meeting her in person at the conservatory many years ago. She isn't just an incredible talent. She is absolutely delightful to be with. She has a deep connection to life and the world around her. Things that the majority of us don't notice and take for granted she connects with on a very visceral level. It is a privilege to live in the same time and world as her.
What a great gathering of international talent! A Chinese pianist, playing a German author composition, conducted by a Russian director, with a German orchestra at a Japenese auditorium. Herr Brahms would be delighted by the experience! Let alone by the superb performance. Very intense to enjoy this fine example of human achievement amidst the uncertain pandemics times
Isn't it amazing how diverse musicians are and can still all be one body with music?!?! One language they all can speak and connect with each other is amazing.
@@chatad213 I sometimes think this level of connection is also felt by mathematicians. It's a universal language of sorts. As a former flute player, I have to say that I am enamored of this woodwind section. There is something rare in such a section that can adapt to a much slower (1st Movement) pace of a major concerto and yet still hold it solidly together. Kudos to the flute section, especially.
Well spoken!! Music is the true "universal language". The best music from all the cultures and traditions in the world, can be appreciated by every human, since it springs from the same source: the common humanity of us all.
The Andante in this version is both, lyric and sumptuous. Miss Wang is one of the finest pianists I've ever heard in my 81 years of life as an assiduous music-lover.
Extraordinary pianist!!! Yuja Wang brings to this marvellous Piano Concerto of Johannes Brahms, thanks you Maestro, all the energy that this piece requires, all the sensitivity, talent, musicality and quimical with all the orchestra and the fantastic Grigoriev as conductor of this beautiful and energic concerto!!! Extraordinary Yuja Wang!!! I love her! ♥️🕊️🌹👍🏻♥️🌹
Agreed! Ms. Wang is young and beautiful and I think that tends to distract from some listeners from her wonderful musical gifts. She is no mere virtuoso. She is a first rate musician! I heard her perform the Rach 3rd in New Zealand a few years ago and I was enormously impressed. Her physical beauty is just a bonus to be appreciated in addition to her vast musical talent and personal charm.
I first heard this when I was 14 years old and struggling in an alcoholic family, living in an ugly area of the city, attending a vile junior high school where there was racial tension and bullying by one group of kids against other kids. This music helped me cope. Now, all these years later I watch and listen to an amazing young woman. I watch her body movements, her hands gliding over the piano, her face etched with an energy I find hard to describe. I have never heard this piece of music played with such freshness, such clarity. This piece is violent then changes to a tenderness in a split second and Yuja Wang captures it with such brilliance.
@@ttrons2 A clever thought. What is musical violence? Sometimes it is perhaps needed, like in operas when you have to persuade the public, but in this Brahms I find nothing of violence, not a bit. Just a lovely flow of music.
When you have time, check out Khatia Buniatishvili's performance which won the Rubinstein award and equals Gilel's titanic account. Yuja is excellent, but Khatia owns this piece.
Tom Martin Perhaps VIOLENCE is too harsh a word to use, maybe STRIDENCY OR FORCEFULNESS would be better. But nothing can take away from this MASTERPIECE it’s glorious beauty.
I've had the pleasure of participating in a master class with Yuja Wang. I was learning Brahms' Op 79 Rhapsody No 2, and she was not only so gracious and kind but in 10 minutes with her I gained a completely fresh perspective on Brahms. Ms. Wang is a force to be reckoned with -- she brings a rock star vibe to her performances, while still maintaining a profoundly deep understanding of the music and technique beyond compare.
Every time I listen to this recording I feel as if in a land of magic. I believe Yuja's secret is that, unlike others, her tone doesn't carry any angst, over brooding, nor harsh pounding. Her playing is refreshing, uplifting and simply beautiful. This is a magnificent recording to treasure.
Previously I knew this music with Krystian Zimerman on piano and Bernstein conducting. I can easily see that what you wrote is true. But I also wonder if part of the reason for that is the vast improvements in sound recording and mixing.
I've always preferred the first concerto as being grittier, more human, and less refined than the second. I've changed my mind! Right from the opening mini-cadenza, Ms Wang gives us all the grit and soul which hadn't really found me before. And yet she never gets carried away and tries to force the piano. And in the Finale... wow. Such majesty, fun, and gossamer-like tenderness. I enjoyed every moment of this and it's become my favourite performance. And that's saying something because I first heard this piece in 1967. Brava, Yuja. One of our great talents.
When I began listening to classical music in my freshmen year, I preferred the D minor concerto as well, but with the passing of some 30 years, that majestic sound and feeling I think Brahms tried to achieve in that first concerto feel to me somewhat bombastic especially the opening first movement; it's still enjoyable to listen to, but it can't match the 2nd. Here, Brahms achieves that majestic feeling. With that said, because I love his chamber music so much, I wish he had written a chamber piano concerto with a smaller orchestra -- perhaps the size of Mozart's. It's too bad; all his orchestral music tends to be grand in scope and feeling.
MPS: Same as you, I've preferred the first concerto but now I'm sold on the second because the performance here brings out the emotion and the subtleties better than I've ever heard. From here on I'll listen to both with equal pleasure - and because of their differences.
The cello introduction imo is the most beautiful tune ever to come from Brahms. It is most wonderfully played here and sets the tone for both the orchestra and the soloist for the whole movement, which I think is about as close to musical perfection as it is possible to get.
iI me semble que c'est un concerto pour piano et orchestre et non une œuvre pour violoncelle, piano et orchestre ! Yuja Wang a suffisamment de génie et de sens musical, pour jouer en harmonie et en osmose parfaite avec le chef et tous les musiciens
Indeed, a very important solo part. And this is why the pianist often goes to shake hands with the first cellist afterwards (like in Liszt second concerto, too).
There is a very strange thing with this Brahms Piano Concerto no 2: You never get tired of listening. Most of the music will come and go, but this music stays forever. Yuja Wang, Valery Gergiev and Munich Philharmonic are the people that make this to be a long life ensurance. I am so thankful!
"Most of the music will come and go, but this music stays forever." ? But surely a great deal of other music as well - Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, etc etc etc, has already demonstrably Not come and gone.
@@adrianwright8685 And about "come and go", Bach was completely "go" till Mendelsson rediscovered him. He had disappeared but was awakened again by Mendelsson. So come and go is very usual in classical music, as in all sort of music. Just a thought, best greetings!
I'm the same age, 75, and similarly grateful for the talent of everyone involved in this performance, from Brahms on down the list. Watching those hands of Ms. Wang while I do my hand exercises. Such fond memories, myself, of playing the piano growing up. Now I listen and enjoy, serenely.
It's as common as it is for people like you to comment on how many dislikes and wonder how it could possibly happen. Every single video out there has a guy just like you. LOL
I'm sorry to say they're all stuck up their own backsides who probably could get a tune out of a penny whistle, just pretending they're musical geniuses 🙄
That´s the subjectivity in art and music is no exception. Yuja has an outstanding technique, one of the best of all times I dare to say, and certainly an incredible sensibility to play those master works, though for me Richter´s performance is still the best I´ve ever heard in my life.
The same people who think Purdy's chocolate is great and Boston Pizza is the best food!! Everyone has the inalienable right to be wrong. Some exercise that right often than others.
I've listened to this piece for 50 years, and I can tell you, that was something else. Perfect sense of rhythm, perfect dynamics and a fluidity that actually made me cry several times.
@@jameskleinberg5948 How is it a stupid comment? I have heard better too. I think she played the 1st and 4th movements very well. The 2nd not so much. I like the way Geza Anda plays the 2nd movmt Anda pl
There is a reason why all the great conductors of the world orchestras line up to have Yuja come and perform with them - she is a supreme talent that packs auditoriums with fans who come to see and hear her performances. We are blessed today by many talented young artists coming to classical music which is what any art form needs to continue into the future. With stars like Yuja, classical music's future is looking very good.
YUJA IS GREAT, BUT THERE ARE MANY GREATS AROUND TODAY. TODAY´S GREATS ARE BETTER THAN THE OLD GREATS-- AND I DON´T NOW WHY? MANY WOMEN GREATS TOO WHICH IS SOMEWHAT NEW.?
Stunning cello soloist and some oboe and clarinet playing to die for.....Yuja invites, as does the conductor all present to have a sumptuous Brahms...this'll lift even lifeless spirits.
With every composition I hear Yuja Wang play I find myself lost for words to describe her own level of Genius. She is creating a whole new world of Music. Pure Wonderment!
I will never give up this performance, so essential to me, even if is is Valery Gergiev, a supporter of Putin, conducting it. Music has to get longer than politics, and so I love this music with Yuja Wang and Valery Gergiev. Across all borders.
Yuja Wang is one of those incredibly rare humans who are not only blessed with the physical prowess of an Olympic champion athlete, but also a photographic memory. I personally would have problems remembering which piece of music followed from the last, never mind the five million precise notes that Yuja must keep track of during just one concert. She is indeed a gift to the world.
You are right. But I think it is a music memory, not a photographic memory. Many pianists have that music memory, can play a whole concert out of their head. And I agree: she is a gift to the world.
@@nancychiappara3516 Took the words out of my fingers, Staffan. It's not the same thing as remembering the score photographically. Music sings and that's different.
Many thanks to Mr. Peter Chen for posting this thrilling, beautiful video by the brilliant, beautiful, Yuja Wang. This is what GREAT piano music is all about. Blessings always to Yuja Wang, her family, music, career, all facets of her life. As a 70 year old life time aficionado of classical music, I find Yuja Wang's interpretations filled with joy and inspiration. To me, Yuja Wang is like a gift from heaven to humanity.
@@brit1066 She always speaks respectfully about her parents and teachers. Collectively, the did a great job raising her. She's a joy to all who listen.
My little brother does that sound engineering stuff. The whole thing is magical. Thanks to all who made it, I'm still listening to it now at 36:00 in. It's enchanting.
I've watched this over and over to marvel at her strength, skill and heart, but get lost in the thrills of the work itself. Brahms stupefies me with his astounding inventive structure, alternating the voices of piano with orchestra in ways nobody else could have thought of. First time I heard it, I thought it was just all over the place random separate episodes; now I see the rhythmic chapters and harmonic migrations as pillars to a musical Parthenon. And all of it imbued with soulful passion. Isn't this the greatest concerto ever?
Absolutely yes, yes, a resounding YES! This is a wildly, inventive, near-psychedelic piece, full of brilliant twists and surprises and jaw-dropping awe-someness. The epitome of classical majesty at its very best!
Probablemente sea uno de los conciertos sinfónicos que trasladan emociones de un lado a otro sin darse cuenta…es imposible no dejarse llevar por esos tránsitos lentos casi hipnóticos, en manos de esta niña prodigio, una voltereta al alma, gracias por esta sublime presentación, simplemente perfecta!
Yuja Wang's visible emotions when playing seem to be just joy and passion. She makes the richness and depth of Piano Concerto No.2 audible through her feeling for the forms, gestures and architecture. Gergiev and the Munichers do their part to bring out this inner glow. Since Richter/Leinsdorf not heard something like that. How wonderful that Brahms of all found such an advocate!
@melshmilon5257 -- Richter/Leinsdorf....recommended 60 years ago in "Hi-Fi Stereo Review".....changed my life in Yonkers, New York......Cheers from Acapulco!
For Piano concertos, I have been listenning to so many: Grieg Piano concerto, Rach No.2 &3, Prokofiev No. 3, Beethoven No. 4&5 &3, Mozart No. 20 &21, Schumann piano concerto, and love all of them, particularly Rach No.2 &3 and Beethoven No.4 have been my favorites for quite a long time until one year ago I watched this video by Yuja and I fell in love with it, and I kept watching it every weekend for more than 50 times! It was so magical that I never got bored, unlike Chopin concertos, the orchestration was so well written and arranged, the dialogue between piano and orchestra is coherant beautifully, the structure and the melody of the concerto are so sophisticated that you can get new feeling every time you listen to it and this kind of feeling will last for very long time, that’s the main difference about complexity between this masterpiece and other piano concertos. I think this concerto is severely underrated and will definetely be my lifetime faviorite! Thank you Yuja for bringing us this wonderful piece of masterwork!
When I was still a student in Hong Kong, I used to have seasonal ticket for the HK Phil because it was cheaper than the price of 5 concerts. I sometimes skipped the concerts when I did not know the music because I could enjoy a concert only I knew the music already. I went to the concert with this concerto which was played after the interval. The next day I bought the record and love it ever since. In the concert, I was most impressed by the 3rd movement with the cello.
Qndy999 When I first listened to this concerto I thought mov#2 was the most impressive, but I quickly found that Mov#1 is structurally complicated which drove me to listen again and again and sometime I found it was breathtaking. I rate Mov#2 one of the best mov#2 of all piano concertos I have listened to if not the best... another excellent mov#2 is from Prokofiev No.3
We seem to have the same tastes! Add the following: Brahms 1 (of course) Mozart K488 & K491, Shostakovich 2 (esp the 2nd movement). Also Concierto Fantastico by Albeniz. The 2nd movement to Philip Glass Tirol Concerto is worth more than a passing glance.
A swimmer up the river. A skater when there is ice. A hummingbird when there is a flower. An eagle when there is a heaven. That is how I want to to describe Yuja Wang in this piano concerto. Unforgettable, that´s how you are.
@@mckavitt13 I admit, I was inspired by Joni Mitchell: "I wish I had a River I could skate away on". She has made me believe that skating is a very poetic way of treating reality. And thank you!
In Swedish, på svenska, thats easier: Ett förhållningssätt, en väg, en möjlighet. Något trögt som måste besegras, något som måste bemästras, och sedan, som oväntad följd, en befrielse, en lätthet. I Brahms bygge finns redan allt av detta, det är det fina, man behöver inte uppfinna någonting, allt finns redan. Det enda som gäller är att finna lättheten när det där tröga är överståndet. Det tycker jag Yuja gör. Därför gillar jag denna tolkning. I cannot express this in English, sorry.
The cellist in the third movement is Floris Mijnders, Maestro Minjnders was with the Rotterdam Orchestra for many years before moving to the Munich Orchestra. He is also in demand as a soloist, is very active in chamber music, and teaches both privately and at the Sweelinck Conservatory in Amsterdam.
That cello in the Andante is always a feature. Brahms reaches deep down with his music to take us close to what we hold dear. The music serving as transporting vehicle. When it returns at 36:10, I am in another world.
In the second movement, right in the middle of chaos and uncertainty and great agitation, Brahms... Brahms inserts this fantastic, yearning, longing little interlude that just about KILLS me every time I hear it 😢 (at 23:47)... you see his heart and soul and passion - open and honestly revealed, for all the world to see - ALL in a brief and beautiful instant... and then it's gone like a whisp of fog on a cold morning lake. I thought Maurizio Pollini would remain unmatched here, but no... here... HERE... this is more than I ever dared ask for! What a shimmering performance by a brilliant pianist who seems to know NO artistic bounds. Be glad that you lived while Yuja walked the Earth... and played oh so beautifully!
Thank you for the poetry! "gone like a whisp of fog on a cold morning lake", well said. I try myself to understand Yujas playing in terms of words not about her playing: "A swimmer up the river, a skater when there is ice, a hummingbird when there is a flower, an eagle when there is a heaven, this is how I think about and listen to Yuja Wang in this Brahms Piano Concerto No. 2."
@Steven Moore YES, precisely so! Brahms - in his life and work - nearly always steered clear of the melodramatic (his great love of cigars, alcohol and pretty ladies, notwithstanding)... but what a PITY that Brahms didn't re-work a repeat of that incredible interlude/melody into the same movement... or in the “Cello Solo” Andante... or in another stand-alone piece! A missed opportunity? We'll probably never know, but who else - save Mozart, Beethoven or Tchaikovsky - could have thrilled us with such a simple, unassuming repeated phrase, shifting so beautifully from major to minor key??? Pure musical genius!
I've watched this video several times. The more I watch, the more I realize the greatness of Brahms, the Munich orchestra, and the amazing, brilliant Yuja Wang. Truly awesome. This is pure and dynamic joy in music. I can't express in mere words how deeply this impacts the soul and spirit of those who actually take time to listen closely.
Totally AGREE! Amazing! I loved the Symphonies and played flute in them for years. But this took much more immersion. I persevered and now I now many of the nuances here lasered into my heart: It's like JB stuffed the concerto with everything he had! AMAZING and YUJA AMAZING! MUNICH ORCH and VG AMAZING!
Thank you for our words. I am one of all who has taken time to listen closely to this. It is almost my daily bread. And so, we are a group of people that always will think this is something we will always carry with us.
In the fall 1977 I was seventeen years old. I had just moved to the Henday Hall student residence to begin my engineering degree at the University of Alberta. The student residences were located beside the Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium. Having been raised on classical music I purchased season tickets to the symphony concert series. The first performance I attended included a performance of the Brahms Piano Concerto No. 2. The performer was Misha Dichter. He was an amazing performer. He was strikingly handsome and exuded confidence and mastery. I was spellbound. I am now almost 60 years old and I can still very clearly remember my emotional reaction to Dichter's performance. I have been a fan of Yuja Wang for a number of years. I live in Calgary where she spent some time studying at the Mount Royal Conservatory, which is just a few miles from where I live. I wish she would come to Calgary and do a recital. Anyway, it is with great pleasure that I listen to this performance of the Brahms Piano Concerto No. 2. It brings back many memories.
Calgary is such a beautiful place to live. I had stayed for about one month, I was really fascinated and mesmerized its scenery and nice people. Then, I saw a recital poster of Yuja Wang maybe June, July 2011? at Royal Mountain University. The poster said I guess, she would perform in Toronto(?)(not correct. a long time ago). I don't know why I remember that poster until now 'cause I had no interest in Wang at that time. However, I still remember that poster image she spread her five fingers against a desk. haha. Sorry, I just think of my past one of my best memory, suddenly struck me.
Great story. 1977 was my last year at U of A. Yes, and Brahms' second piano concerto has been a favorite of mine since I started listening to classical music.
In 1972 in Melbourne Australia I heard this concerto played by Claudio Arrau in the Melbourne town hall. It was so emotionally overcoming I could not (with many others) go back into the hall for the second half of the concert. I never thought, despite hearing many versions in the interim, that I would ever hear a better performance. But here it is. Yuja is the best pianist in the world at this time..
I agree with Andrea, Arrau's is far superior in almost every way I can think of. Not that I don't like Yuja's interpretation, but Arrau's just has so much strength and gravitas, and is so much more deeply though out.
I didn't understand or necessarily liked this concerto first few times I heard it. But now I'm obsessed. There are so many beautiful moments and it's just grand! Yuja is the greatest and what an orchestra!
Actually I heard this piece first in symphony orchestra concert, to which I had gone with my mother. There was some other piece played too in addition to Brahms, but I no longer remember what that was since I was so indifferent to it. I was immediately impressed and in awe for several days on how awesome this piece was.
The third movement, the Andante, is a blessing to all humanity in this Covid-19 time. It says: Don´t give up, times will be better, listen to this and you will understand.
This is an impossible performance. I never heard a Brahms played so buoyant, so life-affirming, so passionate and joyful. And so crystalclear. Know this piece many years. Never heard it sparkle like this. Will definitely be back.
This is a nice performance, I agree, but certainly not 'impossible'. There are even more passionate Brahms 2 out there: have you ever heard Richter? And perhaps the slow movement lacks a bit of understanding in Yuja's young hands yet - but that's understandable, after all. A very talented pianist, though, that's for sure. I hope she will have enough intelligence and maturity to evolve into a really great artist, without remaining 'fixed' to this stage of development of her considerable talent.
Daniele oh I feel that it really sparkles: the musicians are totally on board too: I am ashamed that I didn’t pay enough attention to this concerto : it’s AMAZING and there’s me a Brahms Lover: know symphonies 1-4 inside out, the German Req, Haydn Var. the Chamber works ... been busy I guess ... feel very lucky to be able to experience this as if I’m 12 again!
Thank you , you not so nice smelling person (Diogenes), you are completly right in your observations. Buoyant, life-affirming, passionate, joyful, cristalclear. Want to take a shower?
PS I hope that you understand that this is about your persona Diogenes, not about you. Diogenes lived in a barrel all his life, and he never took a shower;-)
Ms. Wang is beyond praise. She is without doubt the finest pianist I have ever experienced in my more than 80 years on the planet. I would also like to express my gratitude to Matías Piñeira (principle French horn) for mastering one of the most stressful first notes in the literature! 🙂
@@peterectasy2957 Krystian and Yuja are different; one is not strictly better. They have different styles, they specialize in different repertoire. It’s an “apples-and-oranges” comparison.
@Peter Ectasy I just heard Zimmerman, an incredible pianist. Noticed he use very little wrist and forearm adjustments, but w so much dexterity speed it's incredible to watch and hear. I feel they played very differently n both are stupendous virtuosos in its own right. The sound and touch are so different between them... I like them all n I just feel that Yuja Wang is more fluid in its melodic and quiet moments. Depends whom you like.... can't say Zimmerman is better.
When I think of all efforts there are to make this Brahms music come through, not all of them reaches the top. This time it is the Munich Philharmonic with Valery Gergiev and our beloved Yuja Wang. And Im sure that this version will reach the top. And this top is perhaps the highest music mountain you can try to climb. An effort not of this world. But they succeed all together, it is a victory not only for Yuja Wang and the orchestra, but also for all of us who are lucky to have the opportunity to listen to this.
@@muslit Perhaps I dont understand your comment right, I wrote "our beloved Yuja Wang" and you answerd "your beloved", as if she for sure is not your beloved Yuja Wang. Am I wrong?
Listening to this music and this performance makes me think that maybe there is a future for mankind after all, in spite of all the madness that is going on.
@@oldedwardian1778 pop music is so terrible. When this generation has become old, and are dying, listening to Mahler's 2nd symphony, they're going to realise all they've missed.
Reading the negative comments about pop music, I have to protest. Although I most often listen to classical music and jazz, I still think there is a lot of what you call "pop music" that has made this world a better place. You cannot categorize that way.
@@jonashasageremtkjrjensen Fast answer, thank you. Me myself is grown up with Beatles, Jefferson Airplane, Cream, the Doors, and many others. I can not say this music is garbage, as Old Edwardian says. And I like the 4 chord music if it is good.
This is music I will carry with me till I die. After listening to Yujas version several times, perhaps 20, and every time finding something new, I admit that I´ve totally surrendered to this music. And to find out that Yuja Wang is such a great pianist, with this authority and this lack of mannerism, was new for me. She just plays this wonderful music out of her heart, without great gestures. The result is astonishing. And good old Brahms never fails.
Staffan- Thank you for posting this. I agree wholeheartedly. I am a former concert organist and music coach (not teacher), and the first thing that called my attention was miss Wang's *flawless* posture at the piano, the lack of any unnecessary gesture or movement, her control over tension / relaxation and breathing technique. This is why her playing is so elegant and focused.
@@andresgunther Andres, after your comment I have begun to pay attention to how pianists behave! For example their posture at the piano, there we have great varations! So thank you. But I also think that pianists can have a bad posture at the piano and still play very good. Think of Glenn Gould. But I agree, miss Wang´s posture at the piano and lack of any unnecessary gestures is worth a thought. Often the pianists seems to direct the music, even if there is a director. But not Yuja.
One of the many things that astound me about Yuga Wang, and this applies to other concert musicians as well, is the ability to know a long, complex piece like a concerto so well she needs no notation at all. How many pieces does Ms. Wang know so well she could play them, in concert, from memory? Hundreds? More than a thousand? In a time when so many are showing the world the worst of human nature, we need Yuga Wang to remind us of the sensitivity, the beauty, the genius of humanity. There is a little bit of Yuga Wang in all of us.
The memorization in and of itself is simply amazing. Then add to that all of Wang's very high musicianship and artistry and... well... need any of us say more?
The human brain has powers beyond comprehension. Yuja's accuracy and memory can be compared to the famous blind organist Helmut Walcha who listened to each voice of a Bach composition then joined them all together. When Yuja finally plays Bach she will be as pure and unaffected as Walcha.
Almost all professional pianists memorise these concerti - there are many who know 70 concerti off by heart. In fact looking at the music for this concerto would be a distraction from having to look at the keyboard when there is such technical complexity. Memorising is not so difficult - playing it is! What is extraordinary about Yuja is her technical accuracy, evenness, clarity, speed and above all great musicianship.
She has the entire piece in her mind - no score to refer to. This is immense. It must be harder to do with a romantic composition as opposed to a classical one. No missed beat, no wrong notes. Just this magnificent performance. Bravissima. And the orchestra and conductor are as one, providing an immense mirror to Yuja Wang's miraculous performance
Incredible, magnificent performance!! I confess I never really cared for this Brahms 2nd piano concerto. I didn't understand it. Through Yuja's concept of this work I can hear the architecture and massive beauty it. She does not use the orchestra as an accompaniment to her solo part. Since she understands the work in its entirety, she plays it as a seamless whole with the orchestra. I was stunned and moved.
Yuja Wang is so talented. The fact that she has no score in front of her, that's amazing! I'm a. music major and I wish I could memorize like that. I can't imagine memorizing music like that. I am just in awe watching her play.
With time, and if you're a music major and work hard, you will definitely be able to do it. Back in university I could play Mozart's Clarinet Concerto and had not all of it, but large portions, memorized. I think I practiced 45 minutes a day. It probably took my 6 months or a year, I don't remember, but it can absolutely be done with dedication and diligent work.
You often memorise it way before you become content with how you’re playing the piece so I guess it’s to be expected. Unless it’s an easy piece which you might perfectly sight read
Additional Revised Comment: Among many awards which Yuja Wang received, The Musical America Artist of The Year 2017 signified not only her exceptional musicality but also her wisdom in light of sharing. Besides her virtuosic performances in concerto and solo recitals, she has played piano respectively with many world-class musicians (most of them had received top awards in Europe, America and other nations), such as the famous violinists, cellists, clarinetist, pianists and creative percussionists. Whenever she plays with peers in the concerts, she appears unpretentiously yielding the state (e.g. center of attention) to other musicians. This manifests her wisdom in light of sharing.
The high level jamming is always appreciated when members of the orchestra are highlighted although through a formal setting. Loved your comment and agree!
Among all her other contributions, Yuja consistently participates in the most exciting chamber music performances that take place today. As you write, part of the reason for the excellence of those performances is Yuja's ability and willingness to subsume her own playing in support of the other instruments, and the composers' conceptions. She has a great personality but, more important, is a serious and committed professional. The top conductors, orchestras and soloists on other instruments all recognise this, and feel privileged to share a stage with her. The leading composers of our time compose piano pieces with her in mind.
I have seen this lady in Berlin a few years ago and while she had enormous talent she was a little too "showy" for my liking. I now humbly apologise. She has matured and if it is possible has displaced the great Claudio Arrau interpretation.when playing this piece. Conductor, orchestra, sound engineers, picture quality, Cello in 3rd movement, all deserve the highest praise. Absolutely wonderful.
I had an old English lady friend who many years ago shared an transatlantic cruise with Arrau...I think she was 11 or 12...anyway, he caught her eavesdropping on him while he practiced, and he invited her in and told her that, if shs was very quiet, she could listen to him practice each day. She was in heaven.
The wonderful principal cellist who gave a heart-melting solo performance in the third movement is Floris Mijnders. The remarkable concertmaster is Lorenz Nasturica-Herschcowici. This must be the first time I've seen Yuja Wang give a hug to the concertmaster :-)
WOW....magic of internet; now I have this very intimate comment ...esp. interesting to me as I have played violin in many orchestras throughout my amateur musical life. Hugs to you. Peace!
I still completely melt down when I hear this from the third movement, at 33:55, even if I have heard it many times. It is such a relief to hear this part, like swimming in a dark but warm sea, under the moonlight.
I have listened to and loved this concerto for more than 50 years ever since I was a boy at school. This performance may well be the finest I've ever heard. I can hardly believe that a young lady could find the power and control in her hands to overpower a large orchestra playing flat out, but it's happening and is wonderful.
This performance of Brahms Second Piano Concerto by Yuja Wang is both vibrant and stunning, from her voicing, her stamina, her obbligados, and delicacy here, paired with the stellar Munich Orchestra, under the very able and authoritative direction of Maestro Gergiev for a scintillating and nuanced performance of this musical stanchion. Though I've listened to many other great performances of this piece; e.g., Gillels and Richter, among others, this remains my favorite interpretation and performance, thanks to the supreme Yuja Wang.
The most elegant piano playing I heard in many years, if not in my lifetime, yet energy and vitality are there as well. Perfect body posture and harmony of movements. No distracting mannerisms- only focus and concentration; all the energy goes into her playing. Yuja lives through her music, that's why she is so outstanding. I hope to hear her play Max Reger's monumental Piano Concerto in f minor!
A swimmer up the river, a skater when there is ice, a hummingbird when there is a flower, an eagle when there is a heaven, this is how I think about and listen to Yuja Wang in this Brahms Piano Concerto No. 2. As I said before.
I bought the Brahms Piano Concerto Nr 2 when I was 12 years old, and it still can make me cry at 73 yrs old! I always stop and listen to it, when it comes my way. ( I still have that 1959 recording. I must buy a record player to play it on once more!) Thanks to all of you for appreciating it together with me.
If beauty is music, and music is beauty, I sure will set a nickel on Yuja Wang. The way she plays, with this commitment and true compassion, without exaggeration, just a warm lovely flow during this concerto, and without mannerism, as if she owns this music herself. Her voicing, her lyricism, her way to make space when its nessesary. For me this is the best Brahms I ever heard.
@@beckerhanshermann8372 OK. If it is so I have to lay my pen down. But I thought that I in the first place wanted to express my gratitude and happiness about some music instead of judging it. I am not born a judge.
@@beckerhanshermann8372 Not at all, I even thank you for your comment. If our words are unheard, well, what´s the point of writing (saying) them? Just a thought from Sweden
I yesterday visited a consert in Stockholm: Vikingur Olafsson, an Islander pianist, compared to Glenn Gould, playing Mozart this time. Your opinion about him?
@@beckerhanshermann8372 Thank you for your words. I like them a lot. And I believe you are a music lover, perhaps even more loving than I am? You also have a sarcastic pen, a pen that I appreciate. And yes, todays trends in classical music need perhaps a pen like yours, whether it is about short dresses or whatever that capture the market. For a market it is. Me myself is a more "liberal" person, I like Yujas dresses, and understand that it is a way for her to promote herself. And I accept it. So continue with your comments, I will read them with great interest. Best wishes from Sweden!
@@beckerhanshermann8372 Just another comment. So long since I listened to this! And still it is my favourite music, with Yuja as my absolute favourite pianist in this. I have just listened to this consert AGAIN, and this music for a couple of years was my main musical inspiration. And sorry: In this Yuja Wang is not the glamour girl at all but a very intelligent and passionate musician who cooperates with all the other musicians in the best way. As you can understand this is my favourite music. And sorry to say, I dont want to listen to your recommendated Gilels and Zimmerman and Bernstein. I guess they have a sound quality not acceptable in my nice headphones. Best wishes!
A high level of intelligence, a high level of focus, a high level of manual dexterity and coordination, a high level of dedication. I am tempted to say Super Human.
I was told she played this at her first student recital at Curtis at the age of fifteen! Accompagnement by a second piano. "She blew everyone away".....-17 years later she played without any doubt the best interpretation ever!
@Heather - Your comment on the article of the Süddeutsche Zeitung shows how much your admiration for Yuja Wang is touchy. I certainly will not add to the remarks of the aforementioned newspaper, but to say that this interpretation of Brahms second piano concerto is by far the best of all is so grotesque that it can only be the act of a distraught admirer.
@@rigel48 What is truly grotesque is your unsuppressible need to tell everyone that you know better. What other people consider "the best" is none of your concern. People make this sort of exaggerated claims all the time. Go to the Argerich videos you posted and you will certainly find no shortage of such proclamations. However, unlike you, I do not go to her videos and tell Argerich admirers that I find her severely limited pianist, whose attempt at this Brahms concerto would surely be disastrous (it's just as well that she never bothered to learn it; why take the effort to do so when you can simply play Prokofiev 3/Tchaikovsky 1/Schumann PC a thousand times to your fawning fans?). So there. As I said, go back to your favorite pianists and stay there. It would be better for everyone. As for the critic, he is clearly unqualified for the job (infantile psychobabble is no substitute for music criticism) and it is only fair game to call him out.
@Heather I think you did not understand me well. When I say that it is grotesque to say that Yuja Wang gives the best interpretation of this concerto, I do not mean that her interpretation is mediocre, I even find it very good, but Arrau, Richter, Gilels , Ashkenazy, Pollini, Zimerman, ... are as good. It's saying: "it's the best version", whatever the work and the performer in question, that I find ridiculous. I will add that I feel no more or less qualified than any other to give my opinion on this or that interpretation, and as Beaumarchais said: "Without the freedom to blame, there is no flattering praise; only the little men, who fear the little writings."
Brahms is so sincere...I get a shiver when I hear his heavenly andantes. Thanks Johannes-- see you in heaven someday (floating on cloud...and the floor is boucy--don't drop that baby you're holdintg or everyne will laugh)!
It is really sad that most children will not be introduced to this developmentally powerful music. This type of music changes your brain for the good of all humanity.
I fully agree, Carl. I was priviledged to grow up with Classical music in Europe, in a very harsh regime. it was the Classical music, ballet, opera that was sustaining us and now in old age even more so. Yes, Classical music has a great effect, relieves stress, gives a sense of wellbeing therefore has a healing effect, the brain can receive more Intelligence and makes us better, kinder human beings. The same goes for Classical ballet, one receives both audio and great visual esthetic input.
That is absolutely false. Jazz is more creative. This music is promoted simply because of ethnocentrism. Are all the murderous European wars also good for mankind?
Oh how RIGHT you are. Much as I love the arts and am a scientist at heart, THIS music is perhaps mankind’s FINEST ACHIEVEMENT OF ALL TIME. I am watching this on a new 55” TV with YT built in, I am in the second movement and I am in tears, tears of joy. My 13 yo granddaughter is learning the flute and I take her to concerts whenever I can, she loves to listen to this MAGNIFICENT music. Best wishes.
THIS IS MY FAVORITE PERFORMANCE BY YUJA WANG. SHE SHARES THE SPOTLIGHT WITH ALL WHO HAVE GONE BEFORE HER AND PRESENTLY EXIST WHO MASTERED THIS IMMORTAL WORK. I WISH THAT MAESTRO BRAHMS HAD GIFTED US WITH AT LEAST ONE MORE PIANO CONCERTO THAT WAS EQUALLY AS PROFOUND AS THIS. (MY FAVORITE VIDEO OF THIS CONCERTO IS BY ANDRE WATTS, ON THE "WAYNEMUSIKER" CHANNEL.)
@@lisztfestivalschillingsfur2473 THE SHIFT KEY IS NOT STUCK. I USE UPPER CASE RATHER THAN SMALL FONT SIZE BECAUSE IT IS MUCH EASIER TO READ, AND HELPS AVOID TYPOS, WHEN USING A SMALL SCREENED SMARTPHONE KEYBOARD. IT'S OBVIOUSLY EASIER TO READ FOR EVERYONE, EXCEPT PERHAPS FOR FOLKS WHO ACTUALLY ENJOY READING FINE/TINY PRINT. THE MILITARY HAS BEEN USING UPPER CASE FOR MANY DECADES FOR THIS REASON. MANY COMMENTORS USE UPPER CASE, PARTICULARLY THE ELDERLY LIKE I, WHO HAVE WEAK EYESIGHT. UPPER CASE IS PROVIDED TO BE USED AND IS PERFECTLY ACCEPTABLE. I RARELY GET A COMPLAINT, USUALLY IN THE FORM OF A SARCASTIC, SNIDE QUIP LIKE YOURS. YOU TROLLS WHO ARE UNCONCERNED ABOUT REMARKING ABOUT THE CONTENT OF A TEXT, BUT NEEDLE PEOPLE OVER THE INNOCUOS USE OF UPPER CASE NEED TO CONSIDER GETTING A MEANINGFUL LIFE.
I remember - years ago - that I recorded Brahms' 4 symphonies and 2 piano concertos on an mp3 player. We were at the seaside - Belvedere Marittimo, Calabria, Italy - in a hotel, which had a magnificent garden with a terrace overlooking the sea. I got up very early in the morning, went down to the garden and sat there, admiring the beauty of those places and the miracle of Brahms' music. I felt that my whole being was vibrating with an ineffable joy, I seemed to feel the breath of God in those moments. Those mornings remain one of the most beautiful memories in my life.
Wonderful to see your remembrance of that transcendental experience by the sea…your words took me there from tha Colorado mountains…thank you…I always feel a certain closeness and comaraderie with the listeners from around the world…people that I would love to meet…thank you for your thoughtful comment here…✨
Going on a limb with two weeks to go before Beethoven’s 249th birthday, this is the one piece in the repertoire where Ludvig didn’t write something better. If Beethoven’s 5th piano concerto is The Emperor, this is the Everest. And while I’ve seen Wang perform many times, playing many showpieces highlighting speed and dexterity I haven’t seen her play in a few years. This performance shows genuine maturity and command. Outstanding.
If Brahms could hear that description! He was such a fan with a framed Beethoven picture next to his piano in his apartment. And he loved hiking in the mountains, too.
Brahms said many things that lead us to think he did not believe in an afterlife or in God. I know he was inspired by his walks in the countryside. It seems improbable that someone who composed the deeply spiritual German Requiem had no feeling for God. As he was dying, tears were running down his cheeks. Perhaps he was touched by the kindness of Mr. Faber bringing him a glass of wine, but I like to think he was the one of the two sons in the Parable of the Two Sons, who said to his father, "No I will not," but ultimately did.
Valery Gergiev is always good, I like to look at his hands during the concerts, they are butterflies trying to get wind, but what surprises me this time is Yuja Wang, the way she plays, with sort of a new authority that I never before has been aware of. I am impressed and a little bit taken by her way to play. As if she just knows exactly how this music wants to be played, and she plays it! I am specially fond of Allegro appassionato 18:04 and Yuja doesnt dissappoint me there either. What a wonderful piece of music we have here, Brahms in his best, and an orchestra an a pianist at their best.
@@silverflute45 Yeah, I too Iike your comment. If you choose to se his hands as half-dead fishes or newly born butterflies searching for honey, that perhaps indicates what person you are. Have you tried the shrink? (Sorry, I couldn´t resist that joke!) Best wishes.
Whatever she plays, she always can vividly bring out the authenticity of the composer's music connotation with her original interpretation armed with her impeccable and responsible virtuosity. She plays like no other pianists and stand out with charming and amazing style.
Je ne me lasse pas d'écouter ce concert ....Yulia à un tel contrôle du son qu'elle veut donner puissant jamais forcé ! L'orchestre est magnifique aussi ! 👏👏🌹
Often I think that the last movements in classical concertos are the most boring. Then its time for summing-up, all the themes comes in a short version, and then there is some crescendos at the end, so that the public shall applaud real much. Not so this time. No, in this Brahms last movement its a sort of "life goes on" over it, after all disappointments, and the sun sticks out amoung the clouds, and it is not wrong at all! Just a little bit of hope, and Brahms succeeds in inventing a new theme, as well as there is longings and regrets in the music. And Yuja Wang takes that in her hands and helps us to understand life, at least a little bit. Wonderful, I think.
Appreciate this insightful analysis. I used to have misgivings about the 4th movement which seemed anti-climactic and took awhile to accept it. I always believed the 2nd movement would have been the more ideal closer, but who was I to argue with Brahms. After all he loved to end his music with that up-tempo "gypsy dance" in the minor key. Thanks for this explanation.
@@ronaldbeield7946 I am just a free thinker, not at all some pro. But thank you! And perhaps the 2nd, my favourite, could be the last movement? But then we will miss "life goes on".
Yuja Wang's performance has such precision, clarity and depth; all the while being expressive and brimming with sonority, a tour de force by any standard.
She does tend to drag the tempo a bit, though. I prefer a slightly faster tempo, in general. But, not robotic, of course. Listen to Richter with the Chicago Symphony and Fritz Reiner. He (Richter) was magnificent, and, incredibly powerful.
. She does it in a deep, heartfelt and masterful way. Richter was a magnificent one but unfortunately he's dead, instead she is alive and was recorded with excellence of sound. Brahms more than pleased in heaven ? or wherever he is
Besides the well deserved comments about Yuja´s talent, artistry and charm is her astonishing repertoire. Often can one can find a pianist that nails a piece like no one else, and that´s it. She plays many works by many compossers exceptionally well.
This mighty concerto is a mountain to climb, and Yuja Wang reaches the top with grace and ease. There is a tenderness in her playing which brings a touch of sweeteness and affection not so often heard in this concerto, and she has power and vigor when it is needed. Many great pianists have put their authorative stamp on this Brahms piano concerto nb.2, (personally, I like a lot Emil Gilels with his powerful sound and unaffected musical depth), but here, Yuja Wang is second to none.
I do agree with you,Rigel. I have recordings by Giiels and Richter which are landmark performances. In that every artist brings their own qualities to a reading, it doesn't, I feel, get us too far to make comparative judgements, but for me the pianist playing Brahms 2 has to have great strength and firmness to put a stamp on what the composer wishes to convey, but also the tenderness, humility and romance that lies deep within Johannes, there to be brought out . Those who once thought that Yuga Wang was a brilliant pianist, capable of immense virtuosity but lacking in that last degree of depth will know now that in fact she is the complete gal, musically. Brahms would love her, as we do.
@@matthewcoldicutt5951 For me its sort of an education to read your words. Thanks, I couldn´t agree more. And I also think that her "degree of depht" is now on a very high level.
Yuja mostra una grande maturità nel terzo tempo. Riesce a perdersi dentro la partitura, un po' come Richter. Con una agogica allucinata e smarrita. Solista e direttore non hanno nemmeno il bisogno di guardarsi tanto è condivisa l'interpretazione. Se va avanti così la Wang diventerà la più grande pianista di tutti i tempi.
An overwhelming performance of a unique artistry and grandeur. Yuja Wang, born in Beijing on 10th February 1987, is a starlight talent of our new generation of musicians. Tremendous willpower and ingenious recall capacities. No visible struggle with the great difficulties of the pieces to be performed. Johannes Brahms (1833 - 1897) himself played the solo part of his B-Major concerto at the première in Budapest/Hungary in November 1881. The 3rd movement "Andante" (12 minutes) is one of the most heart-moving compositions in the history of classical music: the dialogue between the piano and the violoncello. Yuja Wang and the solo-cellist from the Munich Philharmonic Orchestra create a medititave atmosphere of cosmic quality. Our young artists give hope and confidence to a world which is in total disturbance on its way to a historic transformation. As Mahatma Gandhi wisely said: "BE THE CHANGE YOU WANT TO SEE THE WORLD CHANGE"
Great comment. I was also very impressed by the 3rd movement the first time I came across this concerto. Now, I listen to it again many years later, it feels like a sonata for Cello and piano but accompanied by an orchestra. Bravo Brahms.
Yes, but I think the second movement, Allegro Appassionato, is the Great Movement in this concert. It has everything, the strenght, the passion, also the meditative atmosphere you talk about. For me this is the movement I like the most. And Yuja Wang plays it as if is was a matter of life or death. Listen at 18:04
Yuja Wang appears to be the angel sent by our Lord, for hope of mankind, for world peace, for finishing up the pandemic. Her touches perfectly matches with the theme of this concerto, from the first note to the last, what a seamless team work. That is the another beauty of this well played and well recorded master piece.
After listening to this phenomenally, uplifting performance, I cannot but conclude that Brahms wrote this concerto with Yuja Wang in mind...and Gregiev could not be a better fit. As other reviewers said, there are many recordings of this concerto, but this one is in a class by itself. Thank you Brahms, Yuja, Gregiev and the Munich orchestra.
Brava! One can really understand the complex structure and texture of Brahms' second piano concerto through listening and observing Miss Wang's playing. Of all piano concerti, this is the most Symphonic one and Miss Wang's command of the score (both orchestral and solo parts) is astonishing and equalls that of the conductor. It is quite rare to find a soloist who demonstrates such a command and understanding of the entire piece. Really remarkable!
@Aviram: Her mastery of the structure of the concerto was not an aspect of this performance that I was conscious of. Now that you mention it, I can understand why my many returns to this performance are always so fulfilling. Thank you.
One of the things about watching her perform is that she shows her passion without the histrionics that some (like Lang Lang) indulge in. You can see it smoldering in her eyes as it comes out her fingers.
If I can describe Brahms poetry in just one word that is "regret" and every single note played by Yuja up until the last violin at the rear makes this regret like a blast, like a earthquake, like something which gets stright into the soul and can not find the way out.
Outstanding performance!I became acquainted with this piece in my youth and since then I've heard it often on record.Only today have I become aware of some minute details of the piano score thanks to Yuja's perfect playing!
I've had the pleasure to see and hear Yuja Wang performing in person. Not only does she have a mesmerizing stage presence, but her talent is beyond that of mere humans. If you ever have a chance to attend one of her performances, I promise you will have a dazzling experience.
I first heard this in the early 1960's with Rudolf Serkin. This young lady is fantastic! Those big Brahms chords were not a challenge to her. How great to be able to see and hear these performances with the best seat in the house. Brava!
![Yuja Wang: Rachmaninov Piano Concerto No. 2 in C minor Op. 18 [HD]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/NsqXCO0ADwM/mqdefault.jpg)
![Yuja Wang: Rachmaninov Piano Concerto No. 2 in C minor Op. 18 [HD]](/img/tr.png)
The Brahms Second Piano Concerto is one of the most ferociously difficult concertos in the repertoire. The funny thing is that when it's played well, it almost sounds easy. I've always loved the Ashenazy/Haitink/VPO recording, and I've been lucky enough to hear such pianists as Ax, Watts, and Ohlsson perform it live. I think it was Ax who said, "With the Brahms concerti, you have to be lucky as well as good." This young lady is phenomenal. I love how her playing isn't all about technique, but is about the music. That said, her technique is astounding.
I agree and says Good Luck according to the "With a Brahms concerti, you have to be lucky as well as good" that Ax said. And I also love her playing.
However, it is a little bit strange nowadays to see Valery Gergiev performing. The one that always stands up for Putin, even in this Ucrainan war. I have always loved his conducting, but where is the limit? For me, this time, I have set him on rehearsel, he has to rehearse Russian history and make some other conclutions than he has so far.
feel the same
Technique. And stamina!
He did indeed say that in an interview with a German newspaper when he played it in Frankfurt. Needless to say, he was very good and as lucky as he needed to be.
I had the incredible privilege of meeting her in person at the conservatory many years ago. She isn't just an incredible talent. She is absolutely delightful to be with. She has a deep connection to life and the world around her. Things that the majority of us don't notice and take for granted she connects with on a very visceral level. It is a privilege to live in the same time and world as her.
What a great gathering of international talent!
A Chinese pianist, playing a German author composition, conducted by a Russian director, with a German orchestra at a Japenese auditorium.
Herr Brahms would be delighted by the experience! Let alone by the superb performance.
Very intense to enjoy this fine example of human achievement amidst the uncertain pandemics times
Isn't it amazing how diverse musicians are and can still all be one body with music?!?! One language they all can speak and connect with each other is amazing.
@@chatad213 I sometimes think this level of connection is also felt by mathematicians. It's a universal language of sorts. As a former flute player, I have to say that I am enamored of this woodwind section. There is something rare in such a section that can adapt to a much slower (1st Movement) pace of a major concerto and yet still hold it solidly together. Kudos to the flute section, especially.
Well spoken!! Music is the true "universal language". The best music from all the cultures and traditions in the world, can be appreciated by every human, since it springs from the same source: the common humanity of us all.
Music transcends all barriers: ideology, religion, politics.....the world radiates with hope and joy.
Music is the International language for Peace and love beetwen peoples
The Andante in this version is both, lyric and sumptuous. Miss Wang is one of the finest pianists I've ever heard in my 81 years of life as an assiduous music-lover.
Extraordinary pianist!!!
Yuja Wang brings to this marvellous Piano Concerto of Johannes Brahms, thanks you Maestro, all the energy that this piece requires, all the sensitivity, talent, musicality and quimical with all the orchestra and the fantastic Grigoriev as conductor of this beautiful and energic concerto!!! Extraordinary Yuja Wang!!! I love her! ♥️🕊️🌹👍🏻♥️🌹
+++++++
Agreed! Ms. Wang is young and beautiful and I think that tends to distract from some listeners from her wonderful musical gifts. She is no mere virtuoso. She is a first rate musician! I heard her perform the Rach 3rd in New Zealand a few years ago and I was enormously impressed. Her physical beauty is just a bonus to be appreciated in addition to her vast musical talent and personal charm.
Me too !!!
Agreed Angel!
I´m 71 and have also been assiduous to classical music since I was 12 or so. Regards from Monterrey, Mexico.
I first heard this when I was 14 years old and struggling in an alcoholic family, living in an ugly area of the city, attending a vile junior high school where there was racial tension and bullying by one group of kids against other kids. This music helped me cope. Now, all these years later I watch and listen to an amazing young woman. I watch her body movements, her hands gliding over the piano, her face etched with an energy I find hard to describe. I have never heard this piece of music played with such freshness, such clarity. This piece is violent then changes to a tenderness in a split second and Yuja Wang captures it with such brilliance.
I'm crying... People cruel and heartless... But music heal our soul. You're strong!
I never heard violence in it.
@@ttrons2 A clever thought. What is musical violence? Sometimes it is perhaps needed, like in operas when you have to persuade the public, but in this Brahms I find nothing of violence, not a bit. Just a lovely flow of music.
When you have time, check out Khatia Buniatishvili's performance which won the Rubinstein award and equals Gilel's titanic account. Yuja is excellent, but Khatia owns this piece.
Tom Martin Perhaps VIOLENCE is too harsh a word to use, maybe STRIDENCY OR FORCEFULNESS would be better.
But nothing can take away from this MASTERPIECE it’s glorious beauty.
I've had the pleasure of participating in a master class with Yuja Wang. I was learning Brahms' Op 79 Rhapsody No 2, and she was not only so gracious and kind but in 10 minutes with her I gained a completely fresh perspective on Brahms. Ms. Wang is a force to be reckoned with -- she brings a rock star vibe to her performances, while still maintaining a profoundly deep understanding of the music and technique beyond compare.
Very well said! Lucky you who are a pianist, and had Yuja Wang as your teacher.
Rock star off and I agree completly. She is a nature force. My compliments. JAAK
Rob; Thank you four your excellent comment!!
Great experience Rob! And a beautiful comment.
I started my reply earlier so i 3,will. Fiñish it now. I heard and saw, in person , Sviatoslav Richter play the B4ahms Coñ 2
I would like to thank RUclips for the fantastic music they present for the music lovers .BRAVO.
Every time I listen to this recording I feel as if in a land of magic. I believe Yuja's secret is that, unlike others, her tone doesn't carry any angst, over brooding, nor harsh pounding. Her playing is refreshing, uplifting and simply beautiful. This is a magnificent recording to treasure.
Thank you for verbiage, as eloquent & unbiased as it was.
So right on, Sir, yeah verily! LOVE Yuja Wang, thank God for her.
Previously I knew this music with Krystian Zimerman on piano and Bernstein conducting. I can easily see that what you wrote is true. But I also wonder if part of the reason for that is the vast improvements in sound recording and mixing.
@@rr7firefly nicely recorded, even for youtube. playback.
There's a recording from Arrau. He's also without angst!
I've always preferred the first concerto as being grittier, more human, and less refined than the second. I've changed my mind! Right from the opening mini-cadenza, Ms Wang gives us all the grit and soul which hadn't really found me before. And yet she never gets carried away and tries to force the piano. And in the Finale... wow. Such majesty, fun, and gossamer-like tenderness. I enjoyed every moment of this and it's become my favourite performance. And that's saying something because I first heard this piece in 1967. Brava, Yuja. One of our great talents.
Thanks Michael for verbalising this. I never really rated this second concerto. Now, After Yuja's performance it's my favourite !
it's really a "symphony" for piano when compared to the rest of the "concerto" genre.
When I began listening to classical music in my freshmen year, I preferred the D minor concerto as well, but with the passing of some 30 years, that majestic sound and feeling I think Brahms tried to achieve in that first concerto feel to me somewhat bombastic especially the opening first movement; it's still enjoyable to listen to, but it can't match the 2nd. Here, Brahms achieves that majestic feeling. With that said, because I love his chamber music so much, I wish he had written a chamber piano concerto with a smaller orchestra -- perhaps the size of Mozart's. It's too bad; all his orchestral music tends to be grand in scope and feeling.
It's a shame that Martha Argerich. doesn't appear to have recorded it.
MPS: Same as you, I've preferred the first concerto but now I'm sold on the second because the performance here brings out the emotion and the subtleties better than I've ever heard. From here on I'll listen to both with equal pleasure - and because of their differences.
The cello piece in the third movement is so beautiful even the piano has to bow down and let it tell its tale uninterrupted.
The cello introduction imo is the most beautiful tune ever to come from Brahms. It is most wonderfully played here and sets the tone for both the orchestra and the soloist for the whole movement, which I think is about as close to musical perfection as it is possible to get.
iI me semble que c'est un concerto pour piano et orchestre et non une œuvre pour violoncelle, piano et orchestre ! Yuja Wang a suffisamment de génie et de sens musical, pour jouer en harmonie et en osmose parfaite avec le chef et tous les musiciens
Indeed, a very important solo part. And this is why the pianist often goes to shake hands with the first cellist afterwards (like in Liszt second concerto, too).
@@GingerIndianaor perhaps in clara schumann's piano concerto
There is a very strange thing with this Brahms Piano Concerto no 2: You never get tired of listening. Most of the music will come and go, but this music stays forever. Yuja Wang, Valery Gergiev and Munich Philharmonic are the people that make this to be a long life ensurance. I am so thankful!
Totally agree! 👍🏿👍🏾👍🏽👍🏼👍🏻👍
@@allegramenteee Thank you Muhammad! We are all sitting in the front row.
"Most of the music will come and go, but this music stays forever." ? But surely a great deal of other music as well - Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, etc etc etc, has already demonstrably Not come and gone.
@@adrianwright8685 Of course, but for me this is something special...
@@adrianwright8685 And about "come and go", Bach was completely "go" till Mendelsson rediscovered him. He had disappeared but was awakened again by Mendelsson. So come and go is very usual in classical music, as in all sort of music. Just a thought, best greetings!
I'm 75 but I'm grateful to whatever God that I am able to see those fingers dancing on the keyboard and enjoying the wonderful sound she creates.
I'm the same age, 75, and similarly grateful for the talent of everyone involved in this performance, from Brahms on down the list. Watching those hands of Ms. Wang while I do my hand exercises. Such fond memories, myself, of playing the piano growing up. Now I listen and enjoy, serenely.
Funny, I am also 75, perhaps we shall join in a sort of "We who are 75 and like Yuja Wang-community" ?
No reaction. Maybe is it so that we who are 75 have other things to prepare for instead of thinking of Yuja Wang?
@@staffanolofsson8201 Oh, I think that someone who gives me such a wonderful spiritual joy helps me to "prepare other things" THanks nevertheless
@@staffanolofsson8201 Sorry I haven't seen this reply. I've had some health problems: slipped under a train at the station and I'm alive by a miracle.
Dislikes...how could anyone dislike this stunning talented woman
It's as common as it is for people like you to comment on how many dislikes and wonder how it could possibly happen. Every single video out there has a guy just like you. LOL
it's easy to dislike the conductor, which is a putin's pet and ass licker.
I'm sorry to say they're all stuck up their own backsides who probably could get a tune out of a penny whistle, just pretending they're musical geniuses 🙄
That´s the subjectivity in art and music is no exception. Yuja has an outstanding technique, one of the best of all times I dare to say, and certainly an incredible sensibility to play those master works, though for me Richter´s performance is still the best I´ve ever heard in my life.
The same people who think Purdy's chocolate is great and Boston Pizza is the best food!! Everyone has the inalienable right to be wrong. Some exercise that right often than others.
I've listened to this piece for 50 years, and I can tell you, that was something else. Perfect sense of rhythm, perfect dynamics and a fluidity that actually made me cry several times.
heard better
@@ario4795 Another stupid comment.
@@jameskleinberg5948 How is it a stupid comment? I have heard better too. I think she played the 1st and 4th movements very well. The 2nd not so much. I like the way Geza Anda plays the 2nd movmt Anda pl
In this XXI Century only KHATIA and YUJA have achivied this level, Her renditions, both, stands out!!!
I'm not a Brahms fan, but I have a ticket for Trivonof in London playing this concerto.. Interesting to hear what he does with it...
There is a reason why all the great conductors of the world orchestras line up to have Yuja come and perform with them - she is a supreme talent that packs auditoriums with fans who come to see and hear her performances. We are blessed today by many talented young artists coming to classical music which is what any art form needs to continue into the future. With stars like Yuja, classical music's future is looking very good.
@@baileyedward205 Green Envy???
@@Desireyso58 No, just a silly comment. Sadly, too common, but overwhelmed by the better informed. 🤗
Yuja makes all the world's classic music alive for more than several centuries.
YUJA IS GREAT, BUT THERE ARE MANY GREATS AROUND TODAY. TODAY´S GREATS ARE BETTER THAN THE OLD GREATS-- AND I DON´T NOW WHY? MANY WOMEN GREATS TOO WHICH IS SOMEWHAT NEW.?
Women we're not given the same opportunities as men before!
Stunning cello soloist and some oboe and clarinet playing to die for.....Yuja invites, as does the conductor all present to have a sumptuous Brahms...this'll lift even lifeless spirits.
Agree!!! Nothing else to Say!
@@Desireyso58”Sumptuous “…love that description…✨
With every composition I hear Yuja Wang play I find myself lost for words to describe her own level of Genius. She is creating a whole new world of Music. Pure Wonderment!
You are absolutely right, Mr Anderson.
Could not agree more!
I will never give up this performance, so essential to me, even if is is Valery Gergiev, a supporter of Putin, conducting it. Music has to get longer than politics, and so I love this music with Yuja Wang and Valery Gergiev. Across all borders.
Yuja Wang is one of those incredibly rare humans who are not only blessed with the physical prowess of an Olympic champion athlete, but also a photographic memory. I personally would have problems remembering which piece of music followed from the last, never mind the five million precise notes that Yuja must keep track of during just one concert. She is indeed a gift to the world.
You are right. But I think it is a music memory, not a photographic memory. Many pianists have that music memory, can play a whole concert out of their head. And I agree: she is a gift to the world.
@@staffanolofsson8201 YOU'RE RIGHT, IT´S A music memory.
@@nancychiappara3516 Took the words out of my fingers, Staffan. It's not the same thing as remembering the score photographically. Music sings and that's different.
And besides her innate and God-given talent … we male enthusiasts also admire her artistic flair and facial expressions which are very appealing 🤩
Not necessarily photographic. I have a muscle memory in my fingers
The opening dialogue between horn and piano is probably the most sublimely spiritual music ever written.....
Many thanks to Mr. Peter Chen for posting this thrilling, beautiful video by the brilliant, beautiful, Yuja Wang. This is what GREAT piano music is all about. Blessings always to Yuja Wang, her family, music, career, all facets of her life. As a 70 year old life time aficionado of classical music, I find Yuja Wang's interpretations filled with joy and inspiration. To me, Yuja Wang is like a gift from heaven to humanity.
I agree!
She is!
I am SO GLAD you did NOT say a gift from god.
If anyone should be thanked it is her parents.
She is a gift FROM HUMANKIND TO HUMANKIND.
@@brit1066 She always speaks respectfully about her parents and teachers. Collectively, the did a great job raising her. She's a joy to all who listen.
Science-is-Truth: Perhaps she is both.
Let's thank the engineers who recorded this performance.
My little brother does that sound engineering stuff. The whole thing is magical. Thanks to all who made it, I'm still listening to it now at 36:00 in. It's enchanting.
Yes, and let´s thank the camera people!
@@staffanolofsson8201 Let's thank RUclips.
@@elijahwong6464 In the end, let´s thank Yuja.
Yes! Indeed outstanding mix for this youtube sound codec, cant imagine this in a Hi-Fi system💛 beautiful
The greatest 50 mins on You Tube! Stopped breathing at 35 mins.Not good for an 84 yr. who collapsed in the coffee shop yesterday!!
I've watched this over and over to marvel at her strength, skill and heart, but get lost in the thrills of the work itself. Brahms stupefies me with his astounding inventive structure, alternating the voices of piano with orchestra in ways nobody else could have thought of. First time I heard it, I thought it was just all over the place random separate episodes; now I see the rhythmic chapters and harmonic migrations as pillars to a musical Parthenon. And all of it imbued with soulful passion. Isn't this the greatest concerto ever?
Plus, this is the best produced video of a concerto that I'v e ever seen.
Absolutely yes, yes, a resounding YES! This is a wildly, inventive, near-psychedelic piece, full of brilliant twists and surprises and jaw-dropping awe-someness. The epitome of classical majesty at its very best!
yes, the best piano concerto ever composed
It is all said and more....
Probablemente sea uno de los conciertos sinfónicos que trasladan emociones de un lado a otro sin darse cuenta…es imposible no dejarse llevar por esos tránsitos lentos casi hipnóticos, en manos de esta niña prodigio, una voltereta al alma, gracias por esta sublime presentación, simplemente perfecta!
Yuja Wang's visible emotions when playing seem to be just joy and passion. She makes the richness and depth of Piano Concerto No.2 audible through her feeling for the forms, gestures and architecture. Gergiev and the Munichers do their part to bring out this inner glow. Since Richter/Leinsdorf not heard something like that. How wonderful that Brahms of all found such an advocate!
@melshmilon5257 -- Richter/Leinsdorf....recommended 60 years ago in "Hi-Fi Stereo Review".....changed my life in Yonkers, New York......Cheers from Acapulco!
Ashkenazy & Klemperer did a knockout performance in 1969 too... I'll go check out Richter/Leinsdorf, thanks!
@@maxbuskirk5302 -- I remember that for Rakhmaninov's 3rd, Ashkenazy & Byron Janis were the best I ever heard! Are you still in New Hampshire?
For Piano concertos, I have been listenning to so many: Grieg Piano concerto, Rach No.2 &3, Prokofiev No. 3, Beethoven No. 4&5 &3, Mozart No. 20 &21, Schumann piano concerto, and love all of them, particularly Rach No.2 &3 and Beethoven No.4 have been my favorites for quite a long time until one year ago I watched this video by Yuja and I fell in love with it, and I kept watching it every weekend for more than 50 times! It was so magical that I never got bored, unlike Chopin concertos, the orchestration was so well written and arranged, the dialogue between piano and orchestra is coherant beautifully, the structure and the melody of the concerto are so sophisticated that you can get new feeling every time you listen to it and this kind of feeling will last for very long time, that’s the main difference about complexity between this masterpiece and other piano concertos. I think this concerto is severely underrated and will definetely be my lifetime faviorite! Thank you Yuja for bringing us this wonderful piece of masterwork!
"Severely underrated"? Not by me anyway, as you can see in my earlier comments.
When I was still a student in Hong Kong, I used to have seasonal ticket for the HK Phil because it was cheaper than the price of 5 concerts. I sometimes skipped the concerts when I did not know the music because I could enjoy a concert only I knew the music already. I went to the concert with this concerto which was played after the interval. The next day I bought the record and love it ever since. In the concert, I was most impressed by the 3rd movement with the cello.
Qndy999 When I first listened to this concerto I thought mov#2 was the most impressive, but I quickly found that Mov#1 is structurally complicated which drove me to listen again and again and sometime I found it was breathtaking. I rate Mov#2 one of the best mov#2 of all piano concertos I have listened to if not the best... another excellent mov#2 is from Prokofiev No.3
The Brahms 2d is not, and has never been underrated.
We seem to have the same tastes! Add the following: Brahms 1 (of course) Mozart K488 & K491, Shostakovich 2 (esp the 2nd movement). Also Concierto Fantastico by Albeniz. The 2nd movement to Philip Glass Tirol Concerto is worth more than a passing glance.
A swimmer up the river. A skater when there is ice. A hummingbird when there is a flower. An eagle when there is a heaven. That is how I want to to describe Yuja Wang in this piano concerto. Unforgettable, that´s how you are.
Staffan Olofsson What a gorgeously poetic description! Thank you for your sensitive soul.
@@mckavitt13 I admit, I was inspired by Joni Mitchell: "I wish I had a River I could skate away on". She has made me believe that skating is a very poetic way of treating reality. And thank you!
Staffan - Good choice; and Joni is another poetic soul. 😊 (oh - for fun see ruclips.net/video/5q3y5jYZ6V4/видео.html&feature=share)
It wasn´t Joni Mitchell I had in mind, it was this cover. ruclips.net/video/WLxln74-WA0/видео.html.
In Swedish, på svenska, thats easier: Ett förhållningssätt, en väg, en möjlighet. Något trögt som måste besegras, något som måste bemästras, och sedan, som oväntad följd, en befrielse, en lätthet. I Brahms bygge finns redan allt av detta, det är det fina, man behöver inte uppfinna någonting, allt finns redan. Det enda som gäller är att finna lättheten när det där tröga är överståndet. Det tycker jag Yuja gör. Därför gillar jag denna tolkning. I cannot express this in English, sorry.
The cellist in the third movement is Floris Mijnders, Maestro Minjnders was with the Rotterdam Orchestra for many years before moving to the Munich Orchestra. He is also in demand as a soloist, is very active in chamber music, and teaches both privately and at the Sweelinck Conservatory in Amsterdam.
That cello in the Andante is always a feature. Brahms reaches deep down with his music to take us close to what we hold dear. The music serving as transporting vehicle. When it returns at 36:10, I am in another world.
In the second movement, right in the middle of chaos and uncertainty and great agitation, Brahms... Brahms inserts this fantastic, yearning, longing little interlude that just about KILLS me every time I hear it 😢 (at 23:47)... you see his heart and soul and passion - open and honestly revealed, for all the world to see - ALL in a brief and beautiful instant... and then it's gone like a whisp of fog on a cold morning lake. I thought Maurizio Pollini would remain unmatched here, but no... here... HERE... this is more than I ever dared ask for! What a shimmering performance by a brilliant pianist who seems to know NO artistic bounds. Be glad that you lived while Yuja walked the Earth... and played oh so beautifully!
I agree! And also I have my own special moment in the second movement, it comes at 33:55.
oops... in the third movement, it shall be. Time for some yoga 33:55
Thank you for the poetry! "gone like a whisp of fog on a cold morning lake", well said. I try myself to understand Yujas playing in terms of words not about her playing:
"A swimmer up the river, a skater when there is ice, a hummingbird when there is a flower, an eagle when there is a heaven, this is how I think about and listen to Yuja Wang in this Brahms Piano Concerto No. 2."
I def heard that motif somewhere I think maybe in the movie?? I think it may have been borrowed (or copied). Anyone also recognize?
@Steven Moore YES, precisely so! Brahms - in his life and work - nearly always steered clear of the melodramatic (his great love of cigars, alcohol and pretty ladies, notwithstanding)... but what a PITY that Brahms didn't re-work a repeat of that incredible interlude/melody into the same movement... or in the “Cello Solo” Andante... or in another stand-alone piece! A missed opportunity? We'll probably never know, but who else - save Mozart, Beethoven or Tchaikovsky - could have thrilled us with such a simple, unassuming repeated phrase, shifting so beautifully from major to minor key??? Pure musical genius!
I've watched this video several times. The more I watch, the more I realize the greatness of Brahms, the Munich orchestra, and the amazing, brilliant Yuja Wang. Truly awesome. This is pure and dynamic joy in music. I can't express in mere words how deeply this impacts the soul and spirit of those who actually take time to listen closely.
Totally AGREE! Amazing! I loved the Symphonies and played flute in them for years. But this took much more immersion. I persevered and now I now many of the nuances here lasered into my heart: It's like JB stuffed the concerto with everything he had! AMAZING and YUJA AMAZING! MUNICH ORCH and VG AMAZING!
@@RolandKarlBryce Yeah verily
Thank you for our words. I am one of all who has taken time to listen closely to this. It is almost my daily bread. And so, we are a group of people that always will think this is something we will always carry with us.
@@staffanolofsson8201 Indeed, yeah verily
@@RolandKarlBryce
In the fall 1977 I was seventeen years old. I had just moved to the Henday Hall student residence to begin my engineering degree at the University of Alberta. The student residences were located beside the Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium. Having been raised on classical music I purchased season tickets to the symphony concert series. The first performance I attended included a performance of the Brahms Piano Concerto No. 2. The performer was Misha Dichter. He was an amazing performer. He was strikingly handsome and exuded confidence and mastery. I was spellbound. I am now almost 60 years old and I can still very clearly remember my emotional reaction to Dichter's performance.
I have been a fan of Yuja Wang for a number of years. I live in Calgary where she spent some time studying at the Mount Royal Conservatory, which is just a few miles from where I live. I wish she would come to Calgary and do a recital. Anyway, it is with great pleasure that I listen to this performance of the Brahms Piano Concerto No. 2. It brings back many memories.
Calgary is such a beautiful place to live. I had stayed for about one month, I was really fascinated and mesmerized its scenery and nice people. Then, I saw a recital poster of Yuja Wang maybe June, July 2011? at Royal Mountain University. The poster said I guess, she would perform in Toronto(?)(not correct. a long time ago). I don't know why I remember that poster until now 'cause I had no interest in Wang at that time. However, I still remember that poster image she spread her five fingers against a desk. haha. Sorry, I just think of my past one of my best memory, suddenly struck me.
@@fugueholic I have similar experiences with my musical involvement...ah the memories...nostalgia!!
Great story. 1977 was my last year at U of A. Yes, and Brahms' second piano concerto has been a favorite of mine since I started listening to classical music.
I have the recording of Misha Dichter! Of this conocert It was the first time that i listened this treasure!
In 1972 in Melbourne Australia I heard this concerto played by Claudio Arrau in the Melbourne town hall. It was so emotionally overcoming I could not (with many others) go back into the hall for the second half of the concert. I never thought, despite hearing many versions in the interim, that I would ever hear a better performance. But here it is. Yuja is the best pianist in the world at this time..
I suggest you listen to Arrau again:) ruclips.net/video/y1U9UiHOt04/видео.html
Yuja is the best pianist in the world??? Listen to Zimerman
@@Numberonesorabjifan Lets not forget Behzod pls! Saw Yuja at Disney Hall March 2019. 😘 🎼🎶🎹🌹
Andrea M. No match for yuja s version
I agree with Andrea, Arrau's is far superior in almost every way I can think of. Not that I don't like Yuja's interpretation, but Arrau's just has so much strength and gravitas, and is so much more deeply though out.
I don't know how, but Ms. Wang is always able to play pieces in a way that makes them sound so familiar and yet so new at the same time.
I didn't understand or necessarily liked this concerto first few times I heard it. But now I'm obsessed. There are so many beautiful moments and it's just grand! Yuja is the greatest and what an orchestra!
I so admire this pianist. I think she is just marvelous and brings a sense of just petfection every time I listen to one of her recordings.
Actually I heard this piece first in symphony orchestra concert, to which I had gone with my mother. There was some other piece played too in addition to Brahms, but I no longer remember what that was since I was so indifferent to it.
I was immediately impressed and in awe for several days on how awesome this piece was.
😂😂
That's typical for Brahms' music! They take time to digest!!!
Beautiful cello solos played by Floris Mijnders!
The third movement, the Andante, is a blessing to all humanity in this Covid-19 time. It says: Don´t give up, times will be better, listen to this and you will understand.
This is an impossible performance. I never heard a Brahms played so buoyant, so life-affirming, so passionate and joyful. And so crystalclear. Know this piece many years. Never heard it sparkle like this. Will definitely be back.
This is a nice performance, I agree, but certainly not 'impossible'. There are even more passionate Brahms 2 out there: have you ever heard Richter? And perhaps the slow movement lacks a bit of understanding in Yuja's young hands yet - but that's understandable, after all. A very talented pianist, though, that's for sure. I hope she will have enough intelligence and maturity to evolve into a really great artist, without remaining 'fixed' to this stage of development of her considerable talent.
Daniele oh I feel that it really sparkles: the musicians are totally on board too: I am ashamed that I didn’t pay enough attention to this concerto : it’s AMAZING and there’s me a Brahms Lover: know symphonies 1-4 inside out, the German Req, Haydn Var. the Chamber works ... been busy I guess ... feel very lucky to be able to experience this as if I’m 12 again!
Thank you , you not so nice smelling person (Diogenes), you are completly right in your observations. Buoyant, life-affirming, passionate, joyful, cristalclear. Want to take a shower?
PS I hope that you understand that this is about your persona Diogenes, not about you. Diogenes lived in a barrel all his life, and he never took a shower;-)
Wahnsinn
Woooohooooo…..Yuja on Fire here…..from soft warmth to white hot….Elegance & precision and voicing…..wonderful Brahms….and great collaboration…..
Yes, she is a rocket with exactly the right feeling for Brahms. Unusual.
Ms. Wang is beyond praise. She is without doubt the finest pianist I have ever experienced in my more than 80 years on the planet. I would also like to express my gratitude to Matías Piñeira (principle French horn) for mastering one of the most stressful first notes in the literature! 🙂
i think there are better pianists than Wang, for example Krystian Zimerman
I take it you will not be eating him then...
@@peterectasy2957 Krystian and Yuja are different; one is not strictly better. They have different styles, they specialize in different repertoire. It’s an “apples-and-oranges” comparison.
@Peter Ectasy I just heard Zimmerman, an incredible pianist. Noticed he use very little wrist and forearm adjustments, but w so much dexterity speed it's incredible to watch and hear. I feel they played very differently n both are stupendous virtuosos in its own right. The sound and touch are so different between them... I like them all n I just feel that Yuja Wang is more fluid in its melodic and quiet moments. Depends whom you like.... can't say Zimmerman is better.
The hyperbole on YT is simply out of control..... Seriously, would her praises be the exact same if she were 180lbs and didn't wear sexy attire?
When I think of all efforts there are to make this Brahms music come through, not all of them reaches the top. This time it is the Munich Philharmonic with Valery Gergiev and our beloved Yuja Wang. And Im sure that this version will reach the top. And this top is perhaps the highest music mountain you can try to climb. An effort not of this world. But they succeed all together, it is a victory not only for Yuja Wang and the orchestra, but also for all of us who are lucky to have the opportunity to listen to this.
Very well said !
No clue what you are on about but Gilels Jochum and the BPO came pretty close
your beloved.
@@muslit Perhaps I dont understand your comment right, I wrote "our beloved Yuja Wang" and you answerd "your beloved", as if she for sure is not your beloved Yuja Wang. Am I wrong?
33:55 is one of my favourite moments. Such a relief!
Listening to this music and this performance makes me think that maybe there is a future for mankind after all, in spite of all the madness that is going on.
I hope you are right, but judging from the HIDEOUS GARBAGE that passes for Pop Music today, I have my doubts.
@@oldedwardian1778 pop music is so terrible. When this generation has become old, and are dying, listening to Mahler's 2nd symphony, they're going to realise all they've missed.
Reading the negative comments about pop music, I have to protest. Although I most often listen to classical music and jazz, I still think there is a lot of what you call "pop music" that has made this world a better place. You cannot categorize that way.
@@staffanolofsson8201 The 4 chord music of today sucks. I do enjoy Queen and/or Beatles.
@@jonashasageremtkjrjensen Fast answer, thank you. Me myself is grown up with Beatles, Jefferson Airplane, Cream, the Doors, and many others. I can not say this music is garbage, as Old Edwardian says. And I like the 4 chord music if it is good.
This is music I will carry with me till I die. After listening to Yujas version several times, perhaps 20, and every time finding something new, I admit that I´ve totally surrendered to this music. And to find out that Yuja Wang is such a great pianist, with this authority and this lack of mannerism, was new for me. She just plays this wonderful music out of her heart, without great gestures. The result is astonishing. And good old Brahms never fails.
Staffan- Thank you for posting this. I agree wholeheartedly. I am a former concert organist and music coach (not teacher), and the first thing that called my attention was miss Wang's *flawless* posture at the piano, the lack of any unnecessary gesture or movement, her control over tension / relaxation and breathing technique. This is why her playing is so elegant and focused.
@@andresgunther Andres, after your comment I have begun to pay attention to how pianists behave! For example their posture at the piano, there we have great varations! So thank you. But I also think that pianists can have a bad posture at the piano and still play very good. Think of Glenn Gould. But I agree, miss Wang´s posture at the piano and lack of any unnecessary gestures is worth a thought. Often the pianists seems to direct the music, even if there is a director. But not Yuja.
Now it is up to one hundred times, I believe.
@@staffanolofsson8201 thanks for your joy!
Yuja Wang is not human. I'm convinced of it. She is a goddess of music incarnate. That's the only explanation for such incomparable brilliance.
So powerful and so complicated, yet this young lady pianist simply transcended it to another level. What a talent......
One of the many things that astound me about Yuga Wang, and this applies to other concert musicians as well, is the ability to know a long, complex piece like a concerto so well she needs no notation at all. How many pieces does Ms. Wang know so well she could play them, in concert, from memory? Hundreds? More than a thousand?
In a time when so many are showing the world the worst of human nature, we need Yuga Wang to remind us of the sensitivity, the beauty, the genius of humanity.
There is a little bit of Yuga Wang in all of us.
The memorization in and of itself is simply amazing. Then add to that all of Wang's very high musicianship and artistry and... well... need any of us say more?
There ia no huger wang in me. But she plays well :)
The human brain has powers beyond comprehension. Yuja's accuracy and memory can be compared to the famous blind organist Helmut Walcha who listened to each voice of a Bach composition then joined them all together. When Yuja finally plays Bach she will be as pure and unaffected as Walcha.
Almost all professional pianists memorise these concerti - there are many who know 70 concerti off by heart. In fact looking at the music for this concerto would be a distraction from having to look at the keyboard when there is such technical complexity. Memorising is not so difficult - playing it is! What is extraordinary about Yuja is her technical accuracy, evenness, clarity, speed and above all great musicianship.
Really indded , but isn,t not only a problem of memorising , it,s tehnical very hard , it, s a real climb !!!
She has the entire piece in her mind - no score to refer to. This is immense. It must be harder to do with a romantic composition as opposed to a classical one. No missed beat, no wrong notes. Just this magnificent performance. Bravissima. And the orchestra and conductor are as one, providing an immense mirror to Yuja Wang's miraculous performance
This is normal for a top pianist
Sommer Wood exactly... it's unusual to see a world class pianist using sheet music for anything in the standard repertoire
Incredible, magnificent performance!! I confess I never really cared for this Brahms 2nd piano concerto. I didn't understand it. Through Yuja's concept of this work I can hear the architecture and massive beauty it. She does not use the orchestra as an accompaniment to her solo part. Since she understands the work in its entirety, she plays it as a seamless whole with the orchestra. I was stunned and moved.
S/B: " I can hear the architecture and massive beauties of it." (My phone keeps messing with what I type!)
The Conductor, The Orchestra and Miss Wang Are One
Yuja Wang is so talented. The fact that she has no score in front of her, that's amazing! I'm a. music major and I wish I could memorize like that. I can't imagine memorizing music like that. I am just in awe watching her play.
Yes, but you must remember that she also has to and does practice a lot to make it happen. Talent isn’t everything!
Playing a piano concerto by heart is absolutely normal for professional pianists.
With time, and if you're a music major and work hard, you will definitely be able to do it. Back in university I could play Mozart's Clarinet Concerto and had not all of it, but large portions, memorized. I think I practiced 45 minutes a day. It probably took my 6 months or a year, I don't remember, but it can absolutely be done with dedication and diligent work.
You often memorise it way before you become content with how you’re playing the piece so I guess it’s to be expected. Unless it’s an easy piece which you might perfectly sight read
She has many concertos memorized! And not just concertos -- probably no other prianist alive today with so much memorized music in her head!
Additional Revised Comment:
Among many awards which Yuja Wang received, The Musical America Artist of The Year 2017
signified not only her exceptional musicality but also her wisdom in light of sharing.
Besides her virtuosic performances in concerto and solo recitals, she has played piano
respectively with many world-class musicians (most of them had received top awards in
Europe, America and other nations), such as the famous violinists, cellists, clarinetist,
pianists and creative percussionists.
Whenever she plays with peers in the concerts, she appears unpretentiously yielding the
state (e.g. center of attention) to other musicians. This manifests her wisdom in light of sharing.
The high level jamming is always appreciated when members of the orchestra are highlighted although through a formal setting.
Loved your comment and agree!
Among all her other contributions, Yuja consistently participates in the most exciting chamber music performances that take place today. As you write, part of the reason for the excellence of those performances is Yuja's ability and willingness to subsume her own playing in support of the other instruments, and the composers' conceptions. She has a great personality but, more important, is a serious and committed professional. The top conductors, orchestras and soloists on other instruments all recognise this, and feel privileged to share a stage with her.
The leading composers of our time compose piano pieces with her in mind.
I have seen this lady in Berlin a few years ago and while she had enormous talent she was a little too "showy" for my liking. I now humbly apologise. She has matured and if it is possible has displaced the great Claudio Arrau interpretation.when playing this piece. Conductor, orchestra, sound engineers, picture quality, Cello in 3rd movement, all deserve the highest praise. Absolutely wonderful.
You saw... a few years ago. She’s still plenty showy when at Carnegie Hall, for ex. And she’s still has enormous talent.
I had an old English lady friend who many years ago shared an transatlantic cruise with Arrau...I think she was 11 or 12...anyway, he caught her eavesdropping on him while he practiced, and he invited her in and told her that, if shs was very quiet, she could listen to him practice each day. She was in heaven.
@@nicholasschroeder3678 Lovely story.
The wonderful principal cellist who gave a heart-melting solo performance in the third movement is Floris Mijnders. The remarkable concertmaster is Lorenz Nasturica-Herschcowici. This must be the first time I've seen Yuja Wang give a hug to the concertmaster :-)
WOW....magic of internet; now I have this very intimate comment ...esp. interesting to me as I have played violin in many orchestras throughout my amateur musical life. Hugs to you. Peace!
Thanks to the high video quality we can see and hear that brief duet between piano and cello. I never noticed it just listening to CD's of this piece
Your delightful comment makes me wish there were a Double Like button!
Principal horn is superb as well.
I still completely melt down when I hear this from the third movement, at 33:55, even if I have heard it many times. It is such a relief to hear this part, like swimming in a dark but warm sea, under the moonlight.
We are still mesmerised by the incredible all-encompassing beauty of this realisation... ❤️❤️❤️
Yes, 33:55-40:03 most touching and mesmerizing combination, makes my tear’s with smiling!
People rightly talk a lot about the cello solo, but that clarinet solo is very important too.
I have listened to and loved this concerto for more than 50 years ever since I was a boy at school. This performance may well be the finest I've ever heard. I can hardly believe that a young lady could find the power and control in her hands to overpower a large orchestra playing flat out, but it's happening and is wonderful.
Well, no piano can "overpower" a full orchestra, no matter the piano or the pianist, but the balance here is indeed excellent.
This performance of Brahms Second Piano Concerto by Yuja Wang is both vibrant and stunning, from her voicing, her stamina, her obbligados, and delicacy here, paired with the stellar Munich Orchestra, under the very able and authoritative direction of Maestro Gergiev for a scintillating and nuanced performance of this musical stanchion. Though I've listened to many other great performances of this piece; e.g., Gillels and Richter, among others, this remains my favorite interpretation and performance, thanks to the supreme Yuja Wang.
The most elegant piano playing I heard in many years, if not in my lifetime, yet energy and vitality are there as well. Perfect body posture and harmony of movements. No distracting mannerisms- only focus and concentration; all the energy goes into her playing. Yuja lives through her music, that's why she is so outstanding. I hope to hear her play Max Reger's monumental Piano Concerto in f minor!
beautifully written Andres. thank you, janos
Thank you Andres Gunther for these thoughts. Yes, we are joined together in our admiration.
Floris Mijnders's cello solo/duet with piano in the 3rd movement is really extraordinary--just the best I have ever heard...
A swimmer up the river, a skater when there is ice, a hummingbird when there is a flower, an eagle when there is a heaven, this is how I think about and listen to Yuja Wang in this Brahms Piano Concerto No. 2. As I said before.
Thank you for the poetry.
I bought the Brahms Piano Concerto Nr 2 when I was 12 years old, and it still can make me cry at 73 yrs old! I always stop and listen to it, when it comes my way. ( I still have that 1959 recording. I must buy a record player to play it on once more!) Thanks to all of you for appreciating it together with me.
If beauty is music, and music is beauty, I sure will set a nickel on Yuja Wang. The way she plays, with this commitment and true compassion, without exaggeration, just a warm lovely flow during this concerto, and without mannerism, as if she owns this music herself. Her voicing, her lyricism, her way to make space when its nessesary. For me this is the best Brahms I ever heard.
@@beckerhanshermann8372 OK. If it is so I have to lay my pen down. But I thought that I in the first place wanted to express my gratitude and happiness about some music instead of judging it. I am not born a judge.
@@beckerhanshermann8372 Not at all, I even thank you for your comment. If our words are unheard, well, what´s the point of writing (saying) them? Just a thought from Sweden
I yesterday visited a consert in Stockholm: Vikingur Olafsson, an Islander pianist, compared to Glenn Gould, playing Mozart this time. Your opinion about him?
@@beckerhanshermann8372 Thank you for your words. I like them a lot. And I believe you are a music lover, perhaps even more loving than I am? You also have a sarcastic pen, a pen that I appreciate. And yes, todays trends in classical music need perhaps a pen like yours, whether it is about short dresses or whatever that capture the market. For a market it is. Me myself is a more "liberal" person, I like Yujas dresses, and understand that it is a way for her to promote herself. And I accept it. So continue with your comments, I will read them with great interest. Best wishes from Sweden!
@@beckerhanshermann8372 Just another comment. So long since I listened to this! And still it is my favourite music, with Yuja as my absolute favourite pianist in this. I have just listened to this consert AGAIN, and this music for a couple of years was my main musical inspiration. And sorry: In this Yuja Wang is not the glamour girl at all but a very intelligent and passionate musician who cooperates with all the other musicians in the best way. As you can understand this is my favourite music. And sorry to say, I dont want to listen to your recommendated Gilels and Zimmerman and Bernstein. I guess they have a sound quality not acceptable in my nice headphones. Best wishes!
Truly wonderful of Yuga Wang's talent! Words cannot describe her inner beauty and excellency of her performance.
She manages to maintain an incredible standard. How she does this is some kind of miracle!
Poderosa musica, poderosa pianista, poderoso Brahns, poderosa vida!
A high level of intelligence, a high level of focus, a high level of manual dexterity and coordination, a high level of dedication.
I am tempted to say Super Human.
I was told she played this at her first student recital at Curtis at the age of fifteen! Accompagnement by a second piano. "She blew everyone away".....-17 years later she played without any doubt the best interpretation ever!
You are in love with this woman, so it can only be the best interpretation ever !
@@rigel48 Go back to your favorite Argerich videos, please. What other people prefer is none of your business.
@Heather - Your comment on the article of the Süddeutsche Zeitung shows how much your admiration for Yuja Wang is touchy. I certainly will not add to the remarks of the aforementioned newspaper, but to say that this interpretation of Brahms second piano concerto is by far the best of all is so grotesque that it can only be the act of a distraught admirer.
@@rigel48 What is truly grotesque is your unsuppressible need to tell everyone that you know better. What other people consider "the best" is none of your concern. People make this sort of exaggerated claims all the time. Go to the Argerich videos you posted and you will certainly find no shortage of such proclamations. However, unlike you, I do not go to her videos and tell Argerich admirers that I find her severely limited pianist, whose attempt at this Brahms concerto would surely be disastrous (it's just as well that she never bothered to learn it; why take the effort to do so when you can simply play Prokofiev 3/Tchaikovsky 1/Schumann PC a thousand times to your fawning fans?). So there. As I said, go back to your favorite pianists and stay there. It would be better for everyone.
As for the critic, he is clearly unqualified for the job (infantile psychobabble is no substitute for music criticism) and it is only fair game to call him out.
@Heather I think you did not understand me well. When I say that it is grotesque to say that Yuja Wang gives the best interpretation of this concerto, I do not mean that her interpretation is mediocre, I even find it very good, but Arrau, Richter, Gilels , Ashkenazy, Pollini, Zimerman, ... are as good. It's saying: "it's the best version", whatever the work and the performer in question, that I find ridiculous. I will add that I feel no more or less qualified than any other to give my opinion on this or that interpretation, and as Beaumarchais said: "Without the freedom to blame, there is no flattering praise; only the little men, who fear the little writings."
Watching this for I dont no how many times ; Love Yuja Wang, love Brahms, love everybody......!
I just want to cry for her beautiful majic color change and her beautiful soul !!!
Yuja Wang is way too good, and the orchestra just knocks this one out of the park, might be my favorite rendition of this piece.
Brahms is so sincere...I get a shiver when I hear his heavenly andantes. Thanks Johannes-- see you in heaven someday (floating on cloud...and the floor is boucy--don't drop that baby you're holdintg or everyne will laugh)!
It is really sad that most children will not be introduced to this developmentally powerful music. This type of music changes your brain for the good of all humanity.
I fully agree, Carl.
I was priviledged to grow up with Classical music in Europe, in a very harsh regime.
it was the Classical music, ballet, opera that was sustaining us and now in old age even more so.
Yes, Classical music has a great effect, relieves stress, gives a sense of wellbeing therefore has a healing effect, the brain can receive more Intelligence and makes us better, kinder human beings.
The same goes for Classical ballet, one receives both audio and great visual esthetic input.
That is absolutely false. Jazz is more creative. This music is promoted simply because of ethnocentrism. Are all the murderous European wars also good for mankind?
Oh how RIGHT you are.
Much as I love the arts and am a scientist at heart, THIS music is perhaps mankind’s FINEST ACHIEVEMENT OF ALL TIME.
I am watching this on a new 55” TV with YT built in, I am in the second movement and I am in tears, tears of joy.
My 13 yo granddaughter is learning the flute and I take her to concerts whenever I can, she loves to listen to this MAGNIFICENT music.
Best wishes.
More people are listening to classical music now than ever before actually.
@@jarrodanderson2124 ssssh, don't take this high horse away from them, for some people it's all they've got to feel better about themselves
THIS IS MY FAVORITE PERFORMANCE BY YUJA WANG. SHE SHARES THE SPOTLIGHT WITH ALL WHO HAVE GONE BEFORE HER AND PRESENTLY EXIST WHO MASTERED
THIS IMMORTAL WORK.
I WISH THAT MAESTRO BRAHMS HAD GIFTED US WITH AT LEAST ONE MORE PIANO CONCERTO THAT WAS EQUALLY AS
PROFOUND AS THIS.
(MY FAVORITE VIDEO OF THIS
CONCERTO IS BY ANDRE WATTS, ON THE "WAYNEMUSIKER"
CHANNEL.)
I think your shift key is stuck.
Agreed, but your capital letters are sort of yelling at me.
@@lisztfestivalschillingsfur2473
THE SHIFT KEY IS NOT STUCK. I USE UPPER CASE RATHER THAN SMALL FONT SIZE BECAUSE IT IS MUCH EASIER TO
READ, AND HELPS AVOID TYPOS, WHEN USING A SMALL SCREENED SMARTPHONE KEYBOARD. IT'S OBVIOUSLY EASIER TO READ FOR EVERYONE, EXCEPT PERHAPS FOR FOLKS WHO ACTUALLY ENJOY READING FINE/TINY PRINT.
THE MILITARY HAS BEEN USING UPPER CASE FOR MANY DECADES FOR THIS REASON.
MANY COMMENTORS USE UPPER CASE, PARTICULARLY THE ELDERLY LIKE I, WHO HAVE WEAK EYESIGHT. UPPER CASE IS PROVIDED TO BE USED AND IS PERFECTLY ACCEPTABLE.
I RARELY GET A COMPLAINT, USUALLY IN THE FORM OF A SARCASTIC, SNIDE QUIP LIKE YOURS.
YOU TROLLS WHO ARE UNCONCERNED ABOUT REMARKING ABOUT THE CONTENT OF A
TEXT, BUT NEEDLE
PEOPLE OVER THE
INNOCUOS USE OF UPPER CASE NEED TO CONSIDER GETTING A MEANINGFUL LIFE.
I’ve never liked Brahms. We just never clicked. This has made me delve more deeply into Brahms. Thank you
I remember - years ago - that I recorded Brahms' 4 symphonies and 2 piano concertos on an mp3 player. We were at the seaside - Belvedere Marittimo, Calabria, Italy - in a hotel, which had a magnificent garden with a terrace overlooking the sea. I got up very early in the morning, went down to the garden and sat there, admiring the beauty of those places and the miracle of Brahms' music. I felt that my whole being was vibrating with an ineffable joy, I seemed to feel the breath of God in those moments. Those mornings remain one of the most beautiful memories in my life.
Wonderful to see your remembrance of that transcendental experience by the sea…your words took me there from tha Colorado mountains…thank you…I always feel a certain closeness and comaraderie with the listeners from around the world…people that I would love to meet…thank you for your thoughtful comment here…✨
Just such a young and gifted
pianist. Very rare in our days.
Going on a limb with two weeks to go before Beethoven’s 249th birthday, this is the one piece in the repertoire where Ludvig didn’t write something better. If Beethoven’s 5th piano concerto is The Emperor, this is the Everest.
And while I’ve seen Wang perform many times, playing many showpieces highlighting speed and dexterity I haven’t seen her play in a few years. This performance shows genuine maturity and command.
Outstanding.
If Brahms could hear that description! He was such a fan with a framed Beethoven picture next to his piano in his apartment. And he loved hiking in the mountains, too.
Transported to another world. It’s marvellous from beginning to end. What a shame that Brahms can’t hear her play it. Or maybe he can!
Brahms said many things that lead us to think he did not believe in an afterlife or in God. I know he was inspired by his walks in the countryside. It seems improbable that someone who composed the deeply spiritual German Requiem had no feeling for God. As he was dying, tears were running down his cheeks. Perhaps he was touched by the kindness of Mr. Faber bringing him a glass of wine, but I like to think he was the one of the two sons in the Parable of the Two Sons, who said to his father, "No I will not," but ultimately did.
Valery Gergiev is always good, I like to look at his hands during the concerts, they are butterflies trying to get wind, but what surprises me this time is Yuja Wang, the way she plays, with sort of a new authority that I never before has been aware of. I am impressed and a little bit taken by her way to play. As if she just knows exactly how this music wants to be played, and she plays it! I am specially fond of Allegro appassionato 18:04 and Yuja doesnt dissappoint me there either. What a wonderful piece of music we have here, Brahms in his best, and an orchestra an a pianist at their best.
His hands look half-dead fish flopping about trying to get back water.
Reuben Lane: Mean, but funny!😏 🐠
@@silverflute45 Yeah, I too Iike your comment. If you choose to se his hands as half-dead fishes or newly born butterflies searching for honey, that perhaps indicates what person you are. Have you tried the shrink? (Sorry, I couldn´t resist that joke!) Best wishes.
@@silverflute45 I thought the opposite. Dispensing with the baton, his hands are so much the more expressive than a pointy stick
Whenever I need some energy I come back to this performance♥️♥️♥️
Whatever she plays, she always can vividly bring out the authenticity of the composer's music connotation with her original interpretation armed with her impeccable and responsible virtuosity. She plays like no other pianists and stand out with charming and amazing style.
Je ne me lasse pas d'écouter ce concert ....Yulia à un tel contrôle du son qu'elle veut donner puissant jamais forcé !
L'orchestre est magnifique aussi ! 👏👏🌹
Often I think that the last movements in classical concertos are the most boring. Then its time for summing-up, all the themes comes in a short version, and then there is some crescendos at the end, so that the public shall applaud real much. Not so this time. No, in this Brahms last movement its a sort of "life goes on" over it, after all disappointments, and the sun sticks out amoung the clouds, and it is not wrong at all! Just a little bit of hope, and Brahms succeeds in inventing a new theme, as well as there is longings and regrets in the music. And Yuja Wang takes that in her hands and helps us to understand life, at least a little bit. Wonderful, I think.
Appreciate this insightful analysis. I used to have misgivings about the 4th movement which seemed anti-climactic and took awhile to accept it. I always believed the 2nd movement would have been the more ideal closer, but who was I to argue with Brahms. After all he loved to end his music with that up-tempo "gypsy dance" in the minor key. Thanks for this explanation.
@@ronaldbeield7946 I am just a free thinker, not at all some pro. But thank you! And perhaps the 2nd, my favourite, could be the last movement? But then we will miss "life goes on".
Yuja Wang's performance has such precision, clarity and depth; all the while being expressive and brimming with sonority, a tour de force by any standard.
She does tend to drag the tempo a bit, though. I prefer a slightly faster tempo, in general. But, not robotic, of course. Listen to Richter with the Chicago Symphony and Fritz Reiner. He (Richter) was magnificent, and, incredibly powerful.
Oops, I should have said Erich Leinsdorf conducting the Chicago with Richter.
I just think that Yuja is a gift to all of us - her playing is sublime, powerful, emotional, technically amazing, and full of brilliance.
. She does it in a deep, heartfelt and masterful way. Richter was a magnificent one but unfortunately he's dead, instead she is alive and was recorded with excellence of sound. Brahms more than pleased in heaven ? or wherever he is
@@ytubejat sublime is the perfect word
Brilliant to say the least! Whoever thinks otherwise simply wishes to be able to come even close to playing like this!
Besides the well deserved comments about Yuja´s talent, artistry and charm is her astonishing repertoire. Often can one can find a pianist that nails a piece like no one else, and that´s it. She plays many works by many compossers exceptionally well.
This mighty concerto is a mountain to climb, and Yuja Wang reaches the top with grace and ease. There is a tenderness in her playing which brings a touch of sweeteness and affection not so often heard in this concerto, and she has power and vigor when it is needed.
Many great pianists have put their authorative stamp on this Brahms piano concerto nb.2, (personally, I like a lot Emil Gilels with his powerful sound and unaffected musical depth), but here, Yuja Wang is second to none.
I do agree with you,Rigel. I have recordings by Giiels and Richter which are landmark performances. In that every artist brings their own qualities to a reading, it doesn't, I feel, get us too far to make comparative judgements, but for me the pianist playing Brahms 2 has to have great strength and firmness to put a stamp on what the composer wishes to convey, but also the tenderness, humility and romance that lies deep within Johannes, there to be brought out . Those who once thought that Yuga Wang was a brilliant pianist, capable of immense virtuosity but lacking in that last degree of depth will know now that in fact she is the complete gal, musically. Brahms would love her, as we do.
Ps Brilliant support from the conductor and Munich orchestra too !
rigel48, I like your words, about the "tenderness in her playing" and "power and vigor". You say it the best way it can be said.
@@matthewcoldicutt5951 For me its sort of an education to read your words. Thanks, I couldn´t agree more. And I also think that her "degree of depht" is now on a very high level.
Yuja mostra una grande maturità nel terzo tempo. Riesce a perdersi dentro la partitura, un po' come Richter. Con una agogica allucinata e smarrita. Solista e direttore non hanno nemmeno il bisogno di guardarsi tanto è condivisa l'interpretazione.
Se va avanti così la Wang diventerà la più grande pianista di tutti i tempi.
An overwhelming performance of a unique artistry and grandeur. Yuja Wang, born in Beijing on 10th February 1987, is a starlight talent of our new generation of musicians. Tremendous willpower and ingenious recall capacities. No visible struggle with the great difficulties of the pieces to be performed. Johannes Brahms (1833 - 1897) himself played the solo part of his B-Major concerto at the première in Budapest/Hungary in November 1881. The 3rd movement "Andante" (12 minutes) is one of the most heart-moving compositions in the history of classical music: the dialogue between the piano and the violoncello. Yuja Wang and the solo-cellist from the Munich Philharmonic Orchestra create a medititave atmosphere of cosmic quality. Our young artists give hope and confidence to a world which is in total disturbance on its way to a historic transformation. As Mahatma Gandhi wisely said: "BE THE CHANGE YOU WANT TO SEE THE WORLD CHANGE"
Great Comment !!!
Great comment. I was also very impressed by the 3rd movement the first time I came across this concerto. Now, I listen to it again many years later, it feels like a sonata for Cello and piano but accompanied by an orchestra. Bravo Brahms.
Yes, but I think the second movement, Allegro Appassionato, is the Great Movement in this concert. It has everything, the strenght, the passion, also the meditative atmosphere you talk about. For me this is the movement I like the most. And Yuja Wang plays it as if is was a matter of life or death. Listen at 18:04
Yuja Wang appears to be the angel sent by our Lord, for hope of mankind, for world peace, for finishing up the pandemic. Her touches perfectly matches with the theme of this concerto, from the first note to the last, what a seamless team work. That is the another beauty of this well played and well recorded master piece.
WOW!
After listening to this phenomenally, uplifting performance, I cannot but conclude that Brahms wrote this concerto with Yuja Wang in mind...and Gregiev could not be a better fit. As other reviewers said, there are many recordings of this concerto, but this one is in a class by itself. Thank you Brahms, Yuja, Gregiev and the Munich orchestra.
I hope they reproduce it on vinyl
Yuja to me is a super human. She masters all compositions which I wouldn't be able to play even in a thousand years.
Brava! One can really understand the complex structure and texture of Brahms' second piano concerto through listening and observing Miss Wang's playing. Of all piano concerti, this is the most Symphonic one and Miss Wang's command of the score (both orchestral and solo parts) is astonishing and equalls that of the conductor. It is quite rare to find a soloist who demonstrates such a command and understanding of the entire piece. Really remarkable!
@Aviram: Her mastery of the structure of the concerto was not an aspect of this performance that I was conscious of. Now that you mention it, I can understand why my many returns to this performance are always so fulfilling. Thank you.
The andante is played very poetically, like in a reverie. Very sweet.
There are days when I am sustained by Andantes. I have heard every second movement of every Mozart Piano Concerto countless times. And still I return.
She brings a welcome freshness to this popular work and her expression suggests she really enjoyed playing it too.
One of the things about watching her perform is that she shows her passion without the histrionics that some (like Lang Lang) indulge in. You can see it smoldering in her eyes as it comes out her fingers.
@Steven Moore Yes. I agree in the case of Ms. Hahn. I have also recently become aware of another pianist that fits this bill: Yeol Eum Son.
I can not find the words to describe what my heart is feeling while witnessing this performance of pure genius with tears in my eyes
If I can describe Brahms poetry in just one word that is "regret" and every single note played by Yuja up until the last violin at the rear makes this regret like a blast, like a earthquake, like something which gets stright into the soul and can not find the way out.
My description is ,"aspiration".
@@shadboltbill ???
Truly beautiful and emotionally profound. She owns this and the orchestra is superb.
This is the same Gergiev who ended Stravinsky's "Firebird" in the most dramatic way. What a guy.
Outstanding performance!I became acquainted with this piece in my youth and since then I've heard it often on record.Only today have I become aware of some minute details of the piano score thanks to Yuja's perfect playing!
Likewise. She brings out parts of the score that I've never heard previously.
elle est incroyable un phénomène très rare sur un siècle , il n'y a pas de mot assez fort, nous avons beaucoup de chance de pouvoir l'écouter
Yuja is a sumptuously talented pianist. She's God-sent.
What a wonderful singing tone she brought to this concerto. It has never been as beautiful as this ever before.
I love how Yuja interprets Brahms!
I've had the pleasure to see and hear Yuja Wang performing in person. Not only does she have a mesmerizing stage presence, but her talent is beyond that of mere humans. If you ever have a chance to attend one of her performances, I promise you will have a dazzling experience.
Très belle interprétation. Notre belle pianiste, notre brillant Chef d’orchestre, et ce si bel Orchestre !
I first heard this in the early 1960's with Rudolf Serkin. This young lady is fantastic! Those big Brahms chords were not a challenge to her. How great to be able to see and hear these performances with the best seat in the house. Brava!
Stunning performance of a magnificent composition.
Marvelous. She can bring out the fire in the orchestra. What a satisfying piano concerto.