I've been playing piano, classically trained, for almost 30 years. I believe I have earned the right to have an opinion as to the "greatness" of a pianist. Wang is an incredibly gifted and passionate pianist whose interpretation of Prokofiev 3 is refreshing. People who criticize either do not truly know or understand music from the perspective of the pianist or they are just cruel and jealous of the talent others possess. Many people may think people are merely born with a gift. Yes it's true there MUST be a certain amount of raw, natural talent involved - this is obvious - but what people don't see are the thousands and thousands of hours one practices to achieve greatness. It's a discipline most are never willing or capable of achieving. So a word to "critics"....once you are honestly able to say you spent your childhood, teen years, and many adult years hovering over a keyboard of other musical instrument, playing until your hands hurt, wanting to stop yet can't stop because the passion that compels you to play exceeds any physical pain or social price you pay for missing out on many things..then you can have a platform and a right to criticize a true musician. Until then, you need to be very careful. When one lays their hands on a musical instrument to play in front of others- they are actually laying their soul bare to show the world. It's a vulnerability few can ever understand and certainly something small minded people can not respect.
Having a preference for a pianist who brings more artistry and emotional expression like Martha Argerich or Horacio Gutierrez is not about being cruel or jealous. Wang is technically extraordinary, but she plays the 3rd way too fast, and fails to bring out the lyricism of the piece as well as other pianists. She is like an olympic athlete. Argerich is more like a prima ballerina with the Bolshoi Ballet. Technical prowess does not always equate to artistic excellence.
@@ifoundleon you are the specific audience to whom Nicholas has written. You are comparing apples to oranges, a powerfully gifted & seasoned artist to a young and budding master who has an extraordinary and refreshing take on the composer's vision. Let it be.
@@ifoundleon well it's a great thing we have the internet and can listen to any recording we like, right. Just go listen to Martha's recording then. Music is subjective. It'd be one hell of a boring world if everyone played the same. As long as the interpreter understands why they're doing what they're doing with the music it's all good. It's a different story if a student plays incorrectly, it's ok to correct them, but Yuja has already heard all of the constructive criticism everyone is yelling at her right now to obey when she was a student. She knows all of it, and she has a reason for her interpretations. Look at Gould - personally i thought, some of his interpretations were absolutely horrendous, but I will never deny that he was a genius - one of the greatest musicians of 20th. century
I have been listening to, and watching, Yuja for the last several weeks and I have to say, in my opinion, her technique, style, and interpretation are spot on! As for the short dress, I think she looks fabulous! And "Bravo" for being herself and not feeling like she has to conform to "tradition!" After all, it's the artist that makes the music, not the outfit! ^^
So right on! Well stated, indeed! Love Yuja Wang, her music, personality, wit, charm, candor, and her individual expression in her attire. To me, Yuja Wang is a Heaven sent treasure to humanity, one of the most compelling, charismatic, talented musicians of all time.
Wearing a revealing dress is not being bold... It is giving in to the long tradition of men sexualizing women performers. Look at the images that are used for albums with young female performers, they are often dolled up in "sexy" outfits and poses. Do you see men performing classical music wearing shorts or tank tops? Then go watch videos on RUclips and see more comments about women's looks than their playing. Men get to be judged on the performance, women still are judged on looks. It would be more bold to wear and Burqa and deny men the opportunity to gawk and stare.
Yuja Wang was 23 when this performance was recorded... What an extraordinary mastering of this so demanding concerto! Her virtuosity means more than just a talent, but also an incredible amount of hard work (and memory) at this young age. This young artist is just *amazing* .
Anyone who is able to perform like this is so far beyond normal human abilities that a person having the chance to hear and see this may only rest and enjoy in greatest respect and admiration.
After several listenings, it appears more and more to me that Yuja Wang is among the all time greatest pianists. We are fortunate to be able to hear her.
Wang is one of the most prolific performers of this generation. She combines her own unique fashion sense with countless flawless performances. She is up there in the realms of Argerich and Prokofiev himself- she is a true musical genius!
I marvel at how Prokofiev can compose such a complex masterpiece. What went through his mind when he was composing this? so abstract .... so hypnotic...deep. Amazing!
I agree. The camera sometimes sits on players doing nothing while she is playing stupendous music. It's director's ego. He/she wants the performance to be about the video.
I prefer Yuja Wang performance over Lang Lang performance for this 3rd piano concerto. The absolute clarity and precision of Yuja’s performance is breathtaking to say the least. Pure joy. Would make Prokofiev proud. Bravo!
Oh my Jesus God. Beautiful to bring me to tears and hug my Soul. When I die & go to Heaven, I only want to hear and see this performance. I want NOTHING else. Thank you Ms. Wang. Thank You with Every Fiber of My Being. 💝🤙🏼💋💋🐝🐾
What a gifted artist. Only she can play this concerto so natural, with such brilliance. what a technique...Suuuuuuper!!!!! All classical music lovers may be very excited that Yuja happened to listen to a piece of Prokoviev when she was 14. Listen to the result.....Fabulous.
Practice, practice, practice; and brilliance brings music alive. It is a privilege to listen to genius on the best in technical devices available. Thank you to all involved.
What I HEAR is a musician with extraordinary talent. What I SEE is a performer who's able to play music with extraordinary precision on a piano as spectacularly well crafted as she.
I'm a woman and I think she looks fantastic! She's saying 'Hey, I'm a modern day girl and I'll wear what I want!' Not only does it look nice but I've had to do recitals and those lights can get hot so the dress probably keeps her cool. There was a concert pianist years ago that people criticized for what he wore. When asked how it made him feel, he said..."I cry all the way to the bank!" Aside from that, her playing is second to none. She is superb!
This has to be my favourite performance of this complex and beautiful work to date. The simplicity , clarity and honesty Yuja gives in her contribution to the whole is quite wonderful.
YES! Every note, clear, and never UGLY in the big places, just natural power, listening, and the orchestra and she balance out about as well as one ever hears! Lots of character, and heart, power! The slower sections are just so...............lyrical. I think she is one of the best EVER.
I never really listened to Prokofiev until I heard Yuja play this at Lucerne with Abado conducting in 2010. Blew me away..!! Now Prokofiev 2 & 3 are my favourite Piano Concerti !
oh I finally know why the style of this piece is so unique and excellent in Yujia and Lang Lang's interpretation. They are both the student of Gary Grraffman! Excellent taste and brilliant style!!!
Un talent pur, un miracle d'équilibre entre les masses sonores.un dialogue subtil et nuancé entre le piano et l'orchestre sous la baguette impériale de Valery Gergiev. Yujia Wang fait montre d'une palette de nuances et de sonorités extraordinaire avec toute la sensibilité et la subtilité qu'on lui connaissait déjà mais ici on atteint un sommet presqu'insurpassable.C'est du grand art et en tant que musicien je ne peux que remercier très chaleureusement RUclips et donc Google de cette offrande magnifique.Encore merci à Google d'avoir pu découvrir l'incroyable talent deYujia Wang.
Um, I wouldn't be so sure. All time? One needs a more than just perfect technical ability. She's a great pianist. But is she really a great musician? I'm not convinced yet. Although I heard a glorious Brahms First she played with the NY Phil a few years back. I definitely try to hear her concerts, but I don't think I can yet call her one of the greatest of all time. There seems to be a certain maturity lacking.
@@djmotise I have heard several people express similar sentiments, and I personally disagree. I think part of the problem is that her technical mastery (which nobody can seriously deny) distracts from the consideration of her pure musicianship. Certainly, that is the opinion of an excellent pianist of my acquaintance (amateur, but prize winner in an international piano competition). You get so mesmerised by her *playing* that you forget to truly *listen* . With few exceptions, I think her interpretations, while sometimes innovative, are respectful to the intentions of the composer and highly convincing. She is in the top tier of current pianists, not just technically, but also musically.
@@djmotise for heaven's sake, she was 23 when she played this ! If she's good enough for Claudio Abbado, Gary Graffman, Gustavo Dudamel, MT Thomas and many more. You are maybe not as competent in your analysis as you think!!
My gosh, she explodes like a supernova. Her technique, her voice of the piano is stunning. Her body absorbs the music and she lives the music. She can hardly sit still for want of playing this piece in such a spectacular manner.
Great, great, Prokofiev!!! I enjoyed every note! Thank you! Please ignore the wannabees who have all the words, but nothing to say. My best to you...you were made to make music, and to make it on your own terms...go for it!!
I love this music and she plays in a commanding and authoritative way. How glorious to see such huge talent like this young woman striding across the sometimes dusty orchestral world stage. Bravo Miss Wang!
Wonderful stuff. The speed, compares favourably alongside all the other versions, in fact is probably slower than many. Expressively divine and she has a divine expression.
She is nothing short of an incredible pianist with amazing technique and an ability to work with an orchestra as both a team player and a soloist. It is joy to have this uploaded for our enjoyment!
She is and stays simply the best! After comparing a lot of interpretations Miss Wang seems to me the best pianist of our times! The best clothed and the best educated by the way... What an extraordinary appearance! Lovely the way she play, and unbelievable technical skills!
I never tire of listening to this. She's got a style that I just love- I can't imagine this piece played any other way now. Thanks very much for uploading!
Yuja Wang, I believe, is one of the few pianists who can play this work as well as the composer. I think it is a most arresting performance. Thank you.
Thanks for this upload. Any performance on you tube from the Amsterdam Concertgebouw is worth watching and listening to, the high temple of classical music!
What sold me on Yuja's performance here was not her mastery of the technically difficult passages but her sublime interpretation of the middle movement.
The best performance I ever heard of this work was by the incomparable Byron Janis before the onset of his tragic malady. It was magnificent, because he was magnificent. However, for a young pianist, this young lady does a creditable job. Thanks to the one who uploaded this.
You are more than wonderful Yuja Wang in you interpretation and more than adventurousness of interpreting works that formerly one believed that it was only for the execution of the man and you with your hablidad, workmanship, force, feeling and also beauty you achieve it, congratulations and blessings musical cherub.
Ms Wang plays piece with great virtuosity! I cannot see why some cannot see that. It seems what she wears and how well she wears it, is more important to some! She is a great pianist! That is what matters!
I think some people find it distracting. And that's a legitimate concern. However, she no longer wears those short skirts. I've not seen it, and I've seen her numerous times in NY over the years. Her gowns are absolutely gorgeous and much more effective a fashion statement than any mini-skirt. I think the skirt was a publicity gimmick at the beginning of her career, more than anything. And it worked.
Thank you for posting this wondrous performance by the amazingly gifted Yuja Wang. She is a most-talented virtuoso [virtuosa?]. I first heard this piece as a 15 year old in 1974, at the Ravinia Festival, outside Chicago. I was with my mother, who was a truly fine pianist. I disliked it at first hearing. But she said it was one of the great works of the century. I now see it as one of the great -- and most enjoyable -- piano concerti in the literature.
Along with Rachmaninoff's #3, this is my favorite. Yuja has impeccable good taste in fashion and anyone using the word 'hooker" about her dress code doesn't. Plus the girl can tickle the ivory better than anyone, including Argerich's wonderful playing.
Finally somebody who agrees! This and Rach's 3 are probably my two favorite concertos of all time. I couldn't care less about the way she dresses as her outstanding performance is what I and everybody else sees her for, correct? And I'm glad you can say that Yuja plays better than Argerich in certain aspects of her performance, as I feel Argerich falls short in interpretation and animation sometimes.
I hate to make the Lang Lang comparison, but as it's nothing to do with ethnicity and solely about performance style - sometimes pianists who showcase talent on such a high caliber get slighted by just *exaggerating* performance to a point where the indented "passion" or "expression" comes off as forced or unnatural. This is where I feel Argerich is unmatched; her technique is one of the most entertaining and animated to watch, but at the same time she makes it look effortless. I feel a lot of otherwise amazing pianists fall flat in this respect more often than not - Yuja plays a fantastic rendition here but makes it look like she's undertaking a chore in doing so. Just imo
There is a rhythmic physicality in the way her body moves which makes Ms. Wang seem athletic, or if she were kind of dancing. Even though she is mesmerizing on her own, this movement quality of her's does give her an added visual appeal.
Jaja Wang es una pianista maravillosa, segura de sí misma, estudiosa, con una gran sensibilidad y maestría técnica. Todo lo que oigo y veo de ella me maravilla. Su interpretación de este concierto es única. Aquellos que en vez de gozar de la música la insultan por su manera de vestir son gente enferma que no pueden al mismo tiempo admirar una interpretación de esta calidad y la belleza de una mujer que es un gran ser humano y humilde
Yuja demonstrates in this performance her power and huge technique BUT ALSO her tremendous lyricism and artistic integrity. She gets criticized for "pounding" but some pieces call for that~I think she is in the VERY top of pianists in the world today, and that is saying a whole lot, because there are a plethora of great pianists!!!! This piece was one that made me fall in love with the piano when I was quite young, I will never be on this level of pianism, but have studied and played since I was 6 and am now 64, and a teacher for 40 years. I am so happy she is in the world and this concerto is played a whole lot, but this is definitely a top performance of the work! If you listen to the whole concerto, stunning beauty in the slow movement~imagination, phrasing, color, right along with the super virtuosity! BRAVA!
Customarily they shouldn’t until the conductor steps down from the podium. The applause comes from ignorance, not some triumph of emotion. Also holding the applause doesn’t come from “stiffness”, goofball. It’s out of respect for the musicians who are in the middle of concentrating on their craft.
A major part of the appeal of this piece is that it feels as though everything might tear apart at the seams at any moment. But in some performances that effect is too pronounced. Even Prokofiev's own recording becomes slightly too "unhinged" for my taste. Yuja's interpretation is immaculate while still maintaining that sense of precariousness. Although I suspect she could have pushed harder, instead she listened to the orchestra and gave up this pristine recording. It's really spectacular.
she is not russian,she will never in live or live in rusia rusia,but her interpretation is profund,heart felt and to say that means that only locals should play their own music.and i thougt that music was a universal language
I've been playing piano, classically trained, for almost 30 years. I believe I have earned the right to have an opinion as to the "greatness" of a pianist. Wang is an incredibly gifted and passionate pianist whose interpretation of Prokofiev 3 is refreshing. People who criticize either do not truly know or understand music from the perspective of the pianist or they are just cruel and jealous of the talent others possess.
Many people may think people are merely born with a gift. Yes it's true there MUST be a certain amount of raw, natural talent involved - this is obvious - but what people don't see are the thousands and thousands of hours one practices to achieve greatness. It's a discipline most are never willing or capable of achieving. So a word to "critics"....once you are honestly able to say you spent your childhood, teen years, and many adult years hovering over a keyboard of other musical instrument, playing until your hands hurt, wanting to stop yet can't stop because the passion that compels you to play exceeds any physical pain or social price you pay for missing out on many things..then you can have a platform and a right to criticize a true musician.
Until then, you need to be very careful. When one lays their hands on a musical instrument to play in front of others- they are actually laying their soul bare to show the world. It's a vulnerability few can ever understand and certainly something small minded people can not respect.
It's Mr. Know-it-all!
Having a preference for a pianist who brings more artistry and emotional expression like Martha Argerich or Horacio Gutierrez is not about being cruel or jealous. Wang is technically extraordinary, but she plays the 3rd way too fast, and fails to bring out the lyricism of the piece as well as other pianists. She is like an olympic athlete. Argerich is more like a prima ballerina with the Bolshoi Ballet. Technical prowess does not always equate to artistic excellence.
@@ifoundleon you are the specific audience to whom Nicholas has written. You are comparing apples to oranges, a powerfully gifted & seasoned artist to a young and budding master who has an extraordinary and refreshing take on the composer's vision. Let it be.
So true! Very well said, Nicholas.
@@ifoundleon well it's a great thing we have the internet and can listen to any recording we like, right. Just go listen to Martha's recording then. Music is subjective. It'd be one hell of a boring world if everyone played the same. As long as the interpreter understands why they're doing what they're doing with the music it's all good. It's a different story if a student plays incorrectly, it's ok to correct them, but Yuja has already heard all of the constructive criticism everyone is yelling at her right now to obey when she was a student. She knows all of it, and she has a reason for her interpretations. Look at Gould - personally i thought, some of his interpretations were absolutely horrendous, but I will never deny that he was a genius - one of the greatest musicians of 20th. century
I think everything Yuja Wang plays is outstanding but I love particularly her all Prokofievs. ❤
I have had the honor of performing with Ms. Wang three times and every time was amazing! Brahms, Rachmaninov and Chopin!
Please expand
@@corean3polar Agree.
*
What instrument do you play in the orchestra?
She is truly remarkable
I have been listening to, and watching, Yuja for the last several weeks and I have to say, in my opinion, her technique, style, and interpretation are spot on! As for the short dress, I think she looks fabulous! And "Bravo" for being herself and not feeling like she has to conform to "tradition!" After all, it's the artist that makes the music, not the outfit! ^^
Yeah verily! Well stated, indeed!
So right on! Well stated, indeed! Love Yuja Wang, her music, personality, wit, charm, candor, and her individual expression in her attire. To me, Yuja Wang is a Heaven sent treasure to humanity, one of the most compelling, charismatic, talented musicians of all time.
Agree on all points! FYI Vadym Kholodenko has an incredible recording of this piece, Van Cliburn winner too:)
Wearing a revealing dress is not being bold... It is giving in to the long tradition of men sexualizing women performers. Look at the images that are used for albums with young female performers, they are often dolled up in "sexy" outfits and poses. Do you see men performing classical music wearing shorts or tank tops? Then go watch videos on RUclips and see more comments about women's looks than their playing. Men get to be judged on the performance, women still are judged on looks. It would be more bold to wear and Burqa and deny men the opportunity to gawk and stare.
All you say is true, but she has to earn a living. Of course, women also sexualize men, but they do it more cleverly, less directly.
Yuja Wang was 23 when this performance was recorded... What an extraordinary mastering of this so demanding concerto!
Her virtuosity means more than just a talent, but also an incredible amount of hard work (and memory) at this young age.
This young artist is just *amazing* .
Anyone who is able to perform like this is so far beyond normal human abilities that a person having the chance to hear and see this may only rest and enjoy in greatest respect and admiration.
After several listenings, it appears more and more to me that Yuja Wang is among the all time greatest pianists. We are fortunate to be able to hear her.
I couldn't agree more. A real shining light for the twenty first century. She never disappoints.
Absolutely~
Wang is one of the most prolific performers of this generation. She combines her own unique fashion sense with countless flawless performances. She is up there in the realms of Argerich and Prokofiev himself- she is a true musical genius!
ABSOLUTELY!
I marvel at how Prokofiev can compose such a complex masterpiece. What went through his mind when he was composing this? so abstract .... so hypnotic...deep. Amazing!
Prokofiev masters the "wall of sound" before Phil Spector did.....
She’s amazing and orchestra is also amazing.
I wish the camera spent more time watching her hands play this gorgeous virtuosic piece.
Very poor camera work all round.
Alan C -Agreed. It’s a shame too because it was quite a good performance.
I agree. The camera sometimes sits on players doing nothing while she is playing stupendous music. It's director's ego. He/she wants the performance to be about the video.
DENNY T -That vacant camera happens so often I half expected it to land on someone yawning or scratching something.
You mean the 10 ballerinas dancing on the keyboard? I agree with you
I prefer Yuja Wang performance over Lang Lang performance for this 3rd piano concerto. The absolute clarity and precision of Yuja’s performance is breathtaking to say the least. Pure joy. Would make Prokofiev proud. Bravo!
She exhibits it in the quietest moments and the biggest moments: just MUSICAL~
I. Andante - Allegro 0:35
II. Tema con variazioni 10:07
III. Allegro, ma non troppo 19:51
Applause 29:45
Great performance! I love Prokofiev!!!
The uploader believes though there is Don Juan by R. Strauss
Oh my Jesus God. Beautiful to bring me to tears and hug my Soul.
When I die & go to Heaven, I only want to hear and see this performance. I want NOTHING else. Thank you Ms. Wang. Thank You with Every Fiber of My Being. 💝🤙🏼💋💋🐝🐾
What a gifted artist. Only she can play this concerto so natural, with such brilliance. what a technique...Suuuuuuper!!!!! All classical music lovers may be very excited that Yuja happened to listen to a piece of Prokoviev when she was 14. Listen to the result.....Fabulous.
Practice, practice, practice; and brilliance brings music alive. It is a privilege to listen to genius on the best in technical devices available. Thank you to all involved.
@@davidtrufant3756 agree~
What I HEAR is a musician with extraordinary talent. What I SEE is a performer who's able to play music with extraordinary precision on a piano as spectacularly well crafted as she.
Stunning. I get chills every time I listen to this performance.
To my mind, this was a masterful performance of Prokofiev's greatest masterpiece.
I prefer concerto #2. #3 is the first in heard - in concert.
@@millerforester6237 I prefer #5... but then again there has to be at least one concerto dedicated to all the neurotic types like me.
28:06 I just love her strong and aggressive attack on that chord.
Fabulous performance. I just love Yuja's playing, she brightens up my world.
Mine too, a real shining light.
I'm a woman and I think she looks fantastic! She's saying 'Hey, I'm a modern day girl and I'll wear what I want!' Not only does it look nice but I've had to do recitals and those lights can get hot so the dress probably keeps her cool. There was a concert pianist years ago that people criticized for what he wore. When asked how it made him feel, he said..."I cry all the way to the bank!" Aside from that, her playing is second to none. She is superb!
I agree she dresses like a cooker. I look forward to the day human escapes from feminist ie mandating escapes from our cultures.
Mandating. Typo.
Manhattan.
I apologize. Man hate.
Accidentally pulled up her playing this concerto I've loved for many years. I was awestruck! She is lightning and beauty together.
This has to be my favourite performance of this complex and beautiful work to date. The simplicity , clarity and honesty Yuja gives in her contribution to the whole is quite wonderful.
YES! Every note, clear, and never UGLY in the big places, just natural power, listening, and the orchestra and she balance out about as well as one ever hears! Lots of character, and heart, power! The slower sections are just so...............lyrical. I think she is one of the best EVER.
The ending always gives me chills, I just love it, and I love her interpretation, is just stunning
this is the most perfect interpetation of this concerto i have ever heard,
There is no way to make Prokofiev’s music look easy to play. Ms. Wang is incredibly talented.
This is simply a stunning performance in just about every aspect. Congratulation to all the musicians, the conductor and Yuja.
And not to forget the composer, the most important personality!!!
I never really listened to Prokofiev until I heard Yuja play this at Lucerne with Abado conducting in 2010. Blew me away..!! Now Prokofiev 2 & 3 are my favourite Piano Concerti !
No. 1 is amazing too!!
I mean Yuja's Prokofiev no. 1 !
what an awesome performance by pianist, conductor, and orchestra! Thank You,,John Rapp
oh I finally know why the style of this piece is so unique and excellent in Yujia and Lang Lang's interpretation. They are both the student of Gary Grraffman! Excellent taste and brilliant style!!!
I. Andante-Allegro: 00:36
II. Andantino: 10:09
III. Allegro ma non troppo: 19:52
Hmmm, caption on screen at 10:18 says "Richard Strauss - Don Juan, Op. 20" 🤔
@@vanhouten64 caution with captions
vanhouten64 Someone got fired (or got a stern talk from his/her boss)
@@vanhouten64 Probably a non-musician-tv-person messed it up ^^
I have never heard a more talented pianist!!!!
This is why Prokofiev is John Williams favorite composer.
this is why John Williams is the only modern time composer i like
@@alfredneubert1288 , because he stole most of his famous music? He is a talented thief though
Holst and Stravinsky too
cellofingers I hear echoes of Prokofiev in most of John Williams’ music
@@martinblanco2818 Hi Martin. Yes I agree now that you mention it. It was especially clear in the score for "Radiers of the lost ArK" in my opinion.
I know this piece well. Her performance is brilliant.
Amazing, simply amazing. A blessing sent to us by heaven above.
a great performance by a very talented pianist (and orchestra)
Her prokofiev is so brilliant!!
she's unbelievably telented
One of the most exciting performances on the internet. Wow !
one of great renditions of this piece,as always Yuja will pass to history as one of the greatests pianists of all times
Un talent pur, un miracle d'équilibre entre les masses sonores.un dialogue subtil et nuancé entre le piano et l'orchestre sous la baguette impériale de Valery
Gergiev. Yujia Wang fait montre d'une palette de nuances et de sonorités extraordinaire avec toute la sensibilité et la subtilité qu'on lui connaissait déjà mais ici on atteint un sommet presqu'insurpassable.C'est du grand art et en tant que musicien je ne peux que remercier très chaleureusement RUclips et donc Google de cette offrande magnifique.Encore merci à Google d'avoir pu découvrir l'incroyable talent deYujia Wang.
Um, I wouldn't be so sure. All time? One needs a more than just perfect technical ability. She's a great pianist. But is she really a great musician? I'm not convinced yet. Although I heard a glorious Brahms First she played with the NY Phil a few years back. I definitely try to hear her concerts, but I don't think I can yet call her one of the greatest of all time. There seems to be a certain maturity lacking.
@@djmotise Spot on Darren.
@@djmotise I have heard several people express similar sentiments, and I personally disagree. I think part of the problem is that her technical mastery (which nobody can seriously deny) distracts from the consideration of her pure musicianship. Certainly, that is the opinion of an excellent pianist of my acquaintance (amateur, but prize winner in an international piano competition). You get so mesmerised by her *playing* that you forget to truly *listen* . With few exceptions, I think her interpretations, while sometimes innovative, are respectful to the intentions of the composer and highly convincing. She is in the top tier of current pianists, not just technically, but also musically.
@@djmotise for heaven's sake, she was 23 when she played this ! If she's good enough for Claudio Abbado, Gary Graffman, Gustavo Dudamel, MT Thomas and many more. You are maybe not as competent in your analysis as you think!!
Absolutely great and mesmerizing performance!
My gosh, she explodes like a supernova. Her technique, her voice of the piano is stunning. Her body absorbs the music and she lives the music. She can hardly sit still for want of playing this piece in such a spectacular manner.
Great, great, Prokofiev!!! I enjoyed every note! Thank you! Please ignore the wannabees who have all the words, but nothing to say. My best to you...you were made to make music, and to make it on your own terms...go for it!!
An incredible artist. She will head the list of great 21st century pianists.
She's already on the top of the list.
@@vettegaddia6234 Quite agree.
A true Prokofiev concerto: perturbing and magnetic. You cannot stop listening to it. Thank you very much, Avro, for this and all your great uploads!
I love this concerto, and this is a great performance.
Such a fun concerto! Sounds like it was written yesterday.
Well I must say that Yuja Wang is an extraordinary virtuoso. This has brought me to a new appreciation of Sergei Prokofiev.
Oh! Beautiful interpretation.
I love this music and she plays in a commanding and authoritative way. How glorious to see such huge talent like this young woman striding across the sometimes dusty orchestral world stage. Bravo Miss Wang!
Wonderful stuff. The speed, compares favourably alongside all the other versions, in fact is probably slower than many.
Expressively divine and she has a divine expression.
An absolutely brilliant and exciting performance by one of the greatest pianists now living.
Outstanding! One of my favorite concertos since I was young in the early 80's. Complex and sublime!
I always enjoy coming back here to listen to Yuga Wang play this magnificent concerto ,
BRAVO ! 💯
She is nothing short of an incredible pianist with amazing technique and an ability to work with an orchestra as both a team player and a soloist. It is joy to have this uploaded for our enjoyment!
She is and stays simply the best! After comparing a lot of interpretations Miss Wang seems to me the best pianist of our times! The best clothed and the best educated by the way... What an extraordinary appearance! Lovely the way she play, and unbelievable
technical skills!
THE ICONIC PERFORMANCE RECORDED!
What a splendid performance. Its so rare.
a most beautiful performance. thank you. John Rapp
one of the best performance ever
A confident great pianist and a confident fashionist! I loved how my two loves, music and fashion, got married!
Exciting. Imaginative, And moving. What more could you want?
I have to thank RUclips and Yuja for introducing me to concert music. To watch her hands above the keys with such artistry..........GENIUS!
I never tire of listening to this. She's got a style that I just love- I can't imagine this piece played any other way now. Thanks very much for uploading!
Yuja Wang, I believe, is one of the few pianists who can play this work as well as the composer. I think it is a most arresting performance. Thank you.
Beautiful! I would have loved a simultaneous camera on her hands/keyboard...miraculous.
Thanks for this upload. Any performance on you tube from the Amsterdam Concertgebouw is worth watching and listening to, the high temple of classical music!
What sold me on Yuja's performance here was not her mastery of the technically difficult passages but her sublime interpretation of the middle movement.
Very Beautiful girl, Very Talented....GREAT combination! Respect to Yuja Wang!
I totally agree with you! She's the best all around.
What if she were ugly?
Excelente concertista Yuja Wang, joven y muy virtuosa! - saludos desde - LIMA-PERU
what a most beautiful performance! ...thank YOU!...John Rpp
The best performance I ever heard of this work was by the incomparable Byron Janis before the onset of his tragic malady. It was magnificent, because he was magnificent.
However, for a young pianist, this young lady does a creditable job. Thanks to the one who uploaded this.
Koninklijk Concertgebouworkest, Ze zijn de grootste ter wereld. The best for over 100 years.
what a most beautiful performance! The second movement is awesome! Thank You! Love You!..John Rapp
Such obvious joy in music making from this one!
amazing, fast, awesome, the total package etc
You are more than wonderful Yuja Wang in you interpretation and more than adventurousness of interpreting works that formerly one believed that it was only for the execution of the man and you with your hablidad, workmanship, force, feeling and also beauty you achieve it, congratulations and blessings musical cherub.
How crisp. How powerful. She is so confident.
Ms Wang plays piece with great virtuosity! I cannot see why some cannot see that. It seems what she wears and how well she wears it, is more important to some! She is a great pianist! That is what matters!
I think some people find it distracting. And that's a legitimate concern. However, she no longer wears those short skirts. I've not seen it, and I've seen her numerous times in NY over the years. Her gowns are absolutely gorgeous and much more effective a fashion statement than any mini-skirt. I think the skirt was a publicity gimmick at the beginning of her career, more than anything. And it worked.
Fantastic artistry in a beautifully attired gorgeous woman, playing great music with emotion and flair.
Brava! Nothing else from Italy. I love her performances
Thank you for posting this wondrous performance by the amazingly gifted Yuja Wang. She is a most-talented virtuoso [virtuosa?].
I first heard this piece as a 15 year old in 1974, at the Ravinia Festival, outside Chicago. I was with my mother, who was a truly fine pianist. I disliked it at first hearing. But she said it was one of the great works of the century.
I now see it as one of the great -- and most enjoyable -- piano concerti in the literature.
Along with Rachmaninoff's #3, this is my favorite. Yuja has impeccable good taste in fashion and anyone using the word 'hooker" about her dress code doesn't. Plus the girl can tickle the ivory better than anyone, including Argerich's wonderful playing.
Finally somebody who agrees! This and Rach's 3 are probably my two favorite concertos of all time. I couldn't care less about the way she dresses as her outstanding performance is what I and everybody else sees her for, correct? And I'm glad you can say that Yuja plays better than Argerich in certain aspects of her performance, as I feel Argerich falls short in interpretation and animation sometimes.
Facts. But let's stay here on earth though... As talented as she is, Yuja is a few steps behind Argerich.
Overall, yes. But I definitely see Yuja Wang becoming one of the greats. She's already there in the current world.
I hate to make the Lang Lang comparison, but as it's nothing to do with ethnicity and solely about performance style - sometimes pianists who showcase talent on such a high caliber get slighted by just *exaggerating* performance to a point where the indented "passion" or "expression" comes off as forced or unnatural. This is where I feel Argerich is unmatched; her technique is one of the most entertaining and animated to watch, but at the same time she makes it look effortless. I feel a lot of otherwise amazing pianists fall flat in this respect more often than not - Yuja plays a fantastic rendition here but makes it look like she's undertaking a chore in doing so. Just imo
Strongly agreed! Argerich does it like it's nothing but Yuja makes it look fun.
This concerto is an absolute dream.
There is a rhythmic physicality in the way her body moves which makes Ms. Wang seem athletic, or if she were kind of dancing. Even though she is mesmerizing on her own, this movement quality of her's does give her an added visual appeal.
+Steven Haff Yes she is pretty hot. that little body could be pretty hot in bed
YES, THE FULL "YUJA EFFECT" REQUIRES SEEING HER AS SHE PLAYS !!!!!
Performance ! !
And visual appeal is what music's all about, right?
It may be possible to play Prokofiev better but I can't fathom how. What a combination, talent and presence.
The "unplayable" Prokofiev Piano Concerto no.3, ... mastered by the talent and brilliance of Yuja Wang.
Magnificent !!!
Outstanding and wonderful performance!
Astonishing performance!!
This is really a stunning performance. I'm so glad you are posting these top-quality performances here.
Jaja Wang es una pianista maravillosa, segura de sí misma, estudiosa, con una gran sensibilidad y maestría técnica. Todo lo que oigo y veo de ella me maravilla. Su interpretación de este concierto es única. Aquellos que en vez de gozar de la música la insultan por su manera de vestir son gente enferma que no pueden al mismo tiempo admirar una interpretación de esta calidad y la belleza de una mujer que es un gran ser humano y humilde
Yuja demonstrates in this performance her power and huge technique BUT ALSO her tremendous lyricism and artistic integrity. She gets criticized for "pounding" but some pieces call for that~I think she is in the VERY top of pianists in the world today, and that is saying a whole lot, because there are a plethora of great pianists!!!! This piece was one that made me fall in love with the piano when I was quite young, I will never be on this level of pianism, but have studied and played since I was 6 and am now 64, and a teacher for 40 years. I am so happy she is in the world and this concerto is played a whole lot, but this is definitely a top performance of the work! If you listen to the whole concerto, stunning beauty in the slow movement~imagination, phrasing, color, right along with the super virtuosity! BRAVA!
I like how they clapped after the first movement, always refreshing to see some emotion from the audience
Customarily they shouldn’t until the conductor steps down from the podium. The applause comes from ignorance, not some triumph of emotion. Also holding the applause doesn’t come from “stiffness”, goofball. It’s out of respect for the musicians who are in the middle of concentrating on their craft.
Brilliant! Stunning performance. 😍😍😍😍
A major part of the appeal of this piece is that it feels as though everything might tear apart at the seams at any moment. But in some performances that effect is too pronounced. Even Prokofiev's own recording becomes slightly too "unhinged" for my taste. Yuja's interpretation is immaculate while still maintaining that sense of precariousness. Although I suspect she could have pushed harder, instead she listened to the orchestra and gave up this pristine recording. It's really spectacular.
In my opinion, your critique is masterful, thus rising to its subject: A masterful performance. Thank you.
Dustin Likens u
Yes, one could easily get too caught up in the pace but she showed great discipline while maintaining her art, beautiful!
Brings goose bumps every time I hear it...a remarkable work.
she is not russian,she will never in live or live in rusia rusia,but her interpretation is profund,heart felt and to say that means that only locals should play their own music.and i thougt that music was a universal language
polskapianist Argerich is not Russian either. But she plays the Prokofiev 3rd as well as anyone. Though Yuja is more note perfect.
@@vettegaddia6234 The best actually.
That was just a compliment, Lady ! I just love this person, fingers, talent and all...
my favorite rendition of this piece.One of my favorite pianists of all times.
Yuja, we applaud you from our homes all over !