I agree. 17 is deep gloom, despairing, without hope . . . and then the clouds part, a ray of moonlight shines through, and in 18 we hear one of the most beautiful melodies in all of music. It's nothing short of magic.
"Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini" is not only a display of technical virtuosity but also a musical masterpiece that leaves a profound impact. It represents the synthesis of classical music and romantic style, which is characteristic of many of Rachmaninoff's works. One notable aspect of "Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini" is that it goes beyond being a mere set of variations. Instead, it takes the listener on a grand musical journey where Rachmaninoff explores various aspects and possibilities of the Paganini theme. Each variation is a unique musical gem with its own character and mood. Rachmaninoff showcases his technical virtuosity by creating intricate and exhilarating passages that require the pianist to possess exceptional technical precision and power. Despite its technical complexity, "Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini" is not just a showcase piece. It is permeated with deep emotional intensity and expressiveness, as Rachmaninoff reveals the full range of feelings and moods. From playfulness and joy to melancholy and anguish, each variation possesses its own unique emotional undercurrent, making the composition captivating and emotionally rich. "Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini" is not only a technical and emotional challenge for the pianist but also a musical marvel that leaves an unforgettable impression on listeners. It offers a unique immersion into a world of musical fantasies and emotions, reflecting the greatness and talent of Sergei Rachmaninoff.
Though I adore Lugansky and his playing of Rachmaninoff‘s pieces, I feel there is a good number of performances where I prefer Richter. For example, the Second Piano Concerto, various Preludes such as op 23 no 2 and op 23 no 4 or Etudes such as op 33 no 4. To me those two have at least a very hard fight for being considered „best interpreter“, personally I‘d give the edge to Richter
zamyrabyrd Trifonov‘s Varations [...] are good. What I was saying is that I prefer Richter‘s interpretations of e.g. the Piano Concerto no. 2 and various Etudes/ Preludes
No doubt that this is the best performance of this Rachmaninov's Rhapsody, everything is perfect. I like the strong, sharp style he and the orchestal 's playing
I've simply never heard this piece played any better. His articulation and not hiding behind the pedal is miraculous. I'm so glad this video is on here to enjoy again and again.
Je me suis déjà exprimé sur cette version il y a quelques mois,je suis toujours enthousiasmé. Je l'écoute souvent. Quel. merveilleux pianiste. Cette version fera date et restera la version de référence.
Un pianiste merveilleux et unique!Rachmaninov en beauté . Une musique crée pour la main de Nicolaï ! Un rêve. Rhapsody in a Theme of Paganini est superbe..je ne m’en fatigue …j’aime,ça colle à la peau, c’est merveilleux !Merci.
Brilliant performance from all concerned. Pianist-best performance in my book. Orch- brilliant, quick tempi: perfection. Conductor- best tempi and perfect meshing of instruments. Composer: one his best compositions. Rach isn't just good. He is brilliant in every way.
Mr Lugansky's performance of this beautiful, romantic, expressive, and full of creative juices of a composition was so clean and clear! I simply cannot refrain myself from hearing this rendition of my favourite Rachmaninoff (and there I say, in the whole classical music repertoire) composition of all time.
I totally agree! This piece is an emotional tour de force! - and I would add...Lugansky and Rachmaninoff combo are sumptuous rapture! - hypnotic, transcendent, luminous, radiant, triumphant and electrifying. Lugansky is magnificent - I heard him play in Chicago - spellbinding performance! This is also my favorite piano/orchestra composition! Bravo!!
Yes! Playing perfectly with a bandaged finger. A testimony to life’s uncertainty and fickleness. Practice your whole life, arrange a performance date, have a bad finger incident. Fortunately this gentleman could continue. Hope,sir, your finger is fine, and thank you for your wonderful gift to us!
Сегодня 9 сентября 2022, снова слушаю эту рапсодию и наслаждаюсь такой интерпретацией .Слушала сотни раз в исполнении разных оркестров и пианистов. Рахманинов был бы доволен,без сомнения ! Восторг!
Divinamente mostruoso! Le sue dita corrono sui tasti come zampilli di una fonte magica, La sua naturelezza sconvolge. Padroneggia il suono come se entrambi fossero fusi in un solo organismo. Credo di non aver mai sentito un'emozione così intensa... e io di musica ne ascolto tanta! Lugansky non suona a memoria, suona con l'anima e la fa volare a chi lo ascolta... - Grande orchestra e bravissimo il maestro Vedernikov.
Provo la stessa emozione forte che lei ha descritto così bene. Io amo il binomio Lugansky-Rachmaninoff. Lugansky mi piace tantissimo anche in Grieg Piano Concerto in A minor.
Mi fa piacere che gli stessi sentimenti e le stesse sensazioni di fronte a queste performance, siano condivise… Ho ascoltato altre suonate di Lugansky che sono altrettanto sublimi… questo artista suona con una naturalezza che disarma… Che meraviglia sapere che la musica ci fa provare emozioni così forti… ❤
@@liciabladelli4258 Dice bene, anche in Grieg piano concerto in A minore il tocco e il fluire delle mani sulla tastiera incanta. Lugansky, ho letto sulla sua biografia, fin da bambino leggeva le note di uno spartito al posto delle fiabe e aveva una memoria straordinaria. Ecco, ora ce lo dimostra con queste interpretazioni che fanno liquefare la dolcezza dentro il cuore di chi ascolta...
@@tatianamelpitz6880 Vedernikov with a Japanese orchestra giving one of the best performances of Glazunov's 7th "Pastoral" symphony. It was few years before his death that I "discovered" him. When I heard I couldn't believe he died. I am still sad whenever I watch him conducting. He could have achieved so much more. Then Wanderer posting Lugansky's recital in memory of Vedernikov... Even when he's the darkest Rachmaninov brings you back to life, his music is healing, joy that you are alive. Life without music is poverty of the soul. Rachmaninov's soul was (is) great.
Amazing piece. Of course it contains the beloved Variation 18, but truly at 7'30" the piece changes perspective and becomes passion from power and confusion. It was this piece and his Piano Concerto No. 2 that really made me a fan. I've loved classical music since I was 12 and my mother played classical music while I did my lessons and listened to the birds chirp to her music, not knowing that it was impacting my own musical talents and desires. Thanks to Rachmaninoff, my mom, and God for providing both for me. :-)
ALL HAIL "THE DIVINE ARCHITECT OF THE UNIVERSE AND CREATOR OF ALL THINGS" FOR MASTERWORKS LIKE THIS. "I OWE TO GOD THE GIFTS GIVEN TO ME; TO GOD ALONE. WITHOUT HIM, I AM NOTHING." Sergei Vasilievich Rachmaninoff
Var 15 - mercy me, this is just so good. Lugansky doing what Lugansky does best. Reminds me of the Scherzo from the 3rd movement of Concerto 3, sounds like joyous laughter and excitement.
@@jwilliams8210 yeah that's a LH crossing part on the last two notes (G# and A) of the A G# A top note melody. Might just be a result of trying to get LH clear of the RH faster, and using it for a nice musical effect. I love Lugansky, he makes everything sound so good :)
Beautifully played by Nikolai Lugansky together with the musicians of The Russian National Orchestra - sublime! Thank you for uploading such an exquisite experience.
What a mind blowing composer/pianist Rachmaninov was. With this, Rach 2/3 are my favourites with the WR polka and some of his preludes. Freddy kempf won the young musician of the year in the early 90s playing this ridiculously technical hard piece at 16 years old. This version played with the great crispness, feeling and virtuosity and a plaster on a finger 😮. I just don’t know how these people remember all the notes. 😮 looks like I’ll have stick to practicing a bit of clementi, Scarlatti, Chopin and Schubert. 😂
Practicing the WR Polka and making good progress. The Sherzando bit in he middle a tricky part but I’m getting there. The run up to the top and back leaving till last.
14:51 I love how he accentuates that low Gb. So intense abd nostalgic, it gets me every time. This creates such a beautiful contrast to the following Db.
Эту потрясающую рапсодию называют даже 4- м фортепианным концертом Рахманинова! Слушать её в исполнении любимого пианиста просто необыкновенное наслаждение! Луганского не только интересно слушать, но и приятно смотреть.Мы же не по радио слушаем музыку, а смотрим на исполнителя ,на его руки,лицо.У Луганского никаких картинных закатываний глаз,картинных встряхиваний " гривкой"! Это тоже важно.Не люблю картинных пианистов, будь они и прекрасными исполнителями.Горовиц, Артур Рубинштейн, Гилельс прекрасно обходились без этой "картинности"!
🌠CELESTIALI!🌠 "Music so beautiful, glorious and prprofound that it could create a soul under the ribs of death!" John Milton "Music to soothe the savage breast, soften rocks, and bend the knotted oak." William Congreve I daresay that it is the consensus opinion that this is the greatest set of variations ever written for piano, with or without orchestra. It's the MOUNT EVEREST OF THEM ALL! This magnificent performance belongs in the Pantheon of the greatest recordings ever made. Regarding that famous 18th variation, whenever and wherever it is played, the songbirds in the trees pause their own rhapsodic, golden-throated calls whenever those sublime notes fall on their tender ears. After Rachmaninoff simply inverted the original Paganini tune, out of curiosity, to hear how it would sound, after so doing he rushed to the telephone and called Horowitz, exclaiming in Russian: "I have another hit on my hands!" "I owe to God the gifts given to me, to God alone. Without Him, I am nothing." Sergei Vasilievitch Rachmaninoff Milton Moore Las Vegas, Nevada
People do not talk enough about the 12 variation, such a sublime moment of beauty in this piece. I would kill to hear an entire piece built of that short 90 seconds.
Resolve. Determination. Precise. Execution. Exact. Effortless. A few careful notes. Produced by a whole lifetime of practice. A few words by the introvert. And then...Variation 18...beautiful, romantic, expressive, and full of creative longings. Andante cantabile. You feel as if you literally need to hold your breath. Cantabile - sing, sing, sing, sing, some more. I prefer an introvert's understated artistry. No need for wild facial expressions, short mini skirts, gesticulation, extreme youth, botox, or any other additives. I like the lines on his face - he looks very kind, and how he carefully wraps up at the end of Variation 18, as if he has given his best offering. Lugansky is my Artist of choice for every piece of piano music that Rachmaninoff ever wrote.
Rachmaninoff had a medical condition, acromegaly, which led him to have big bones, big hands, and tall stature (he stood somewhere between 6'1" to 6'6") so you can imagine only someone with a larger physical stature could have written such a technical demanding piece that require a lot of raw physical strength (from the the distal finger joints all the up to the shoulders/arm/core body strength). When one is playing this piece, it's not just the fingers that are moving. It's more like that the entire body needs to weigh in - and the entire body needs to dance and coordinate what the musicality needs. see how he jumps up a little bit from the seat. So yes, for this piece, no affirmative action or a politically correct statement. I prefer to a biological male to playing this piece - to carry out what the composer had intended. The ending was just spectacular, no?
It is very much in dispute that Rachmaninoff had acromegaly, never confirmed by research and he doesn't fit characteristics; in fact, he looks fairly normal and look at physical features of people with acromegaly. His hands were large and he was about 6'4". He had what was called lumbago but lots of people do, and Rachmaninoff was in great demand as a concert pianist. He pushed himself till his death age 70 right after a concert.
I enjoyed his performance, and the playing from the Orchestra. His playing was very clean with light use of pedal. I think his bouncing on the bench at times is his style of theatrics. Rather surprising he didn't cancel this engagement with his injured third finger on his left hand which no one has mentioned that I see. Was there anything remaining of his bandage after that double glissandi at the end of the piece? No one seems to play the glissandi the same way (I'm referring to hand position). But he played well and should be pleased with his performance.
Truly excellent and enjoyable performance! Here the piano and orchestra play as one unit and create a symphony, not a concerto. One feels as though this is Russian ballet with perfect tempi.
The harpist is on stage for basically 24 minutes to play for only a mere 2-3 seconds, beginning at around 7:55. Why Rachmaninoff scored the harp for only this brief whisper both astonishes and saddens me. I would love to have another harp lover like me create a score with the harp playing a large embellishing role throughout the piece. If someone had done this while Rachmaninoff was alive I doubt very much if he would have been in disfavor. He was still working on revisions of his fourth piano concerto, including a two piano version, late in his life, but it never came to fruition. It is difficult to conceive of this performance by Lugansky ever being exceeded in any aspect by which a performance can be judged. It belongs in the Pantheon of the greatest recordings ever made. "I OWE TO GOD THE GIFTS GIVEN TO ME; TO GOD ALONE. WITHOUT HIM, I AM NOTHING." Sergei Vasivielitch Rachmaninoff
When the orchestra plays the part of this song from 15:34 to 18:33 it takes me back to the time of imperial russia during the reign and life of the last Tsar/Emperor Nicholas II and his wife Empress Alexandra, his son Tsarevich/Grand Duke Alexis, and his four daughters Grand Duchesses Olga, Tatiana, Marie, and Anastasia. God bless their memory!!!!!
I love this whole piece, especially variation 18 and many others (I'm sure plenty else do too). However, anybody else enjoy the sound of the piano at the start of variation 19?
i want to say 18 isn't one of the greatest moments in the concerto repertoire, but i can't bring myself to it. i don't care how famous it is, it gets me every fucking time
If you listen to it a bunch by itself i can see how some would find it tiring after a while, but within the context of the whole piece it is so well earned and cathartic.
Николай Луганский лучший! Мастер, все цельно, продуманно, по - мужски! До мурашек!!! Многих послушала- это самое крутое исполнение! Браво! Трогает до слез!
Composed 88 years ago in July and August 1934. The very first public performance by Rachmaninov with the Philadelphia Orchestra was in Nov 1934 and I have a CD of the first recording on Christmas Eve 1934. I also have LPs of Katchen, Ortiz, and Ashkenazy. This is just about my No 1 favourite piece of music (With Paganini's 24th Caprice itself). The 2013 Proms video on RUclips with Stephen Hough is another excellent revording, From the visual perspective, I prefer that to this.
THE CONSENSUS OPINION I HAVE GATHERED FROM MUSIC CRITICS IS THAT THIS IS THE GREATEST WORK RACHMANINOFF EVER COMPOSED. I WOULDN'T SAY THAT MYSELF, BUT NONE OF HIS OTHER WORKS EXCEEDED THIS IN GREATNESS. HOW DID YOU COME TO THE CONCLUSION THAT THIS MASTERPIECE IS UNDERVALUED?
@@miltonmoore8369 Вы правы , это одно из величайших произведений Рахманинова! По его значимости , даже называют эту рапсодию 4м концертом Рахманинова! Хотя ,просто,казалось бы, вариации на 24-й каприз Паганини, а получилось грандиозное произведение!
@@galinamelnikova9855 I NOTICE THAT MOST NON-ENGLISH COMMENTS ARE ACCOMPANIED BY A BUTTON TO PUSH WHICH WILL TRANSLATE FOREIGN LANGUAGES INTO ENGLISH. HOPEFULLY YOU CAN LEARN HOW TO ACCOMPLISH THIS, SINCE I CANNOT SPEAK OR READ RUSSIAN. "SPACEBO"😄.
Not flexing or anything but I have his signature on a cd
Wow I want too
Étincelante exécution. Lugansky est actuellement un des meilleurs pianistes. Bravo.
I have a photo and Sheet music signed hehe
in cirilic or alphabet?
Hehe I got his signature on my Rach 3 book two months ago! He is very humble
I was there. It was phenomenal, legendary. The greatest concert experience in my life.
You're so lucky!!! 🥺
What was on the 2nd half?
@@martinuhlenbrock2968 ravel piano concerto for the left hand and la valse(orchestra ver.)
@@penzio7 Thank you so much.
You're such a lucky person !!!
Lugansky is truly a master of Rachmaninoff, perfect tempi, pedalling..the best I've heard.
His transition form 17 to 18 is literally perfect. Easily one of the most favorite transitions in classical music
The most mesmerizing ever, to be sure.
Milton Moore
Но о чем 17 и 18 вариации?
I agree. 17 is deep gloom, despairing, without hope . . . and then the clouds part, a ray of moonlight shines through, and in 18 we hear one of the most beautiful melodies in all of music. It's nothing short of magic.
It was unearthly. Heartbreakingly beautiful.
And with that bandage on one of his left fingers, he turns in one of the best performances ever of this piece. No words.
Гениальная Музыка на все времена!
Николай Львович Луганский Большой Музыкант и ЛИЧНОСТЬ!!!
The andante cantabile still give me goose bumps after all these 75 years I've been listening to this masterpiece .
🌟🌟🌟
I WAS BORN IN 1945 AND JUST TURNED 76 LAST MONTH, SO BASICALLY YOU HAVE BEEN LISTENING TO THIS MY ENTIRE LIFETIME!
@@miltonmoore8369Yes, but the crazy thing is, what you've no idea of is he's been playing it continuously on repeat, while thinking about you
"Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini" is not only a display of technical virtuosity but also a musical masterpiece that leaves a profound impact. It represents the synthesis of classical music and romantic style, which is characteristic of many of Rachmaninoff's works.
One notable aspect of "Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini" is that it goes beyond being a mere set of variations. Instead, it takes the listener on a grand musical journey where Rachmaninoff explores various aspects and possibilities of the Paganini theme. Each variation is a unique musical gem with its own character and mood. Rachmaninoff showcases his technical virtuosity by creating intricate and exhilarating passages that require the pianist to possess exceptional technical precision and power.
Despite its technical complexity, "Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini" is not just a showcase piece. It is permeated with deep emotional intensity and expressiveness, as Rachmaninoff reveals the full range of feelings and moods. From playfulness and joy to melancholy and anguish, each variation possesses its own unique emotional undercurrent, making the composition captivating and emotionally rich.
"Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini" is not only a technical and emotional challenge for the pianist but also a musical marvel that leaves an unforgettable impression on listeners. It offers a unique immersion into a world of musical fantasies and emotions, reflecting the greatness and talent of Sergei Rachmaninoff.
This is definitely chatgpt lmfao
incredible performance, soloist and orchestra are TOTALLY perfect together
There's a reason Lugansky is considered the best interpreter of Rachmaninoff.
Though I adore Lugansky and his playing of Rachmaninoff‘s pieces, I feel there is a good number of performances where I prefer Richter. For example, the Second Piano Concerto, various Preludes such as op 23 no 2 and op 23 no 4 or Etudes such as op 33 no 4. To me those two have at least a very hard fight for being considered „best interpreter“, personally I‘d give the edge to Richter
@@blabla5268 lol richter is dead
Lorenzo Banchiero
I wonder what point you‘re trying to make with that
Bla bla, try Daniil Trifonov and Zubin Mehta with the Israeli Phil, 2011 when the pianist was only 20 years old!
zamyrabyrd
Trifonov‘s Varations [...] are good. What I was saying is that I prefer Richter‘s interpretations of e.g. the Piano Concerto no. 2 and various Etudes/ Preludes
No doubt that this is the best performance of this Rachmaninov's Rhapsody, everything is perfect. I like the strong, sharp style he and the orchestal 's playing
I've simply never heard this piece played any better. His articulation and not hiding behind the pedal is miraculous. I'm so glad this video is on here to enjoy again and again.
Браво,Сергею Рахманинову! Браво, Николаю Луганскому. Оркестру!!!
Nikolai Lugansky is amazing. Wonderful musician. He's just so intensely into the music itself. Fantastic performance👏
The 18th variation! I cried.
i cried at the 12th already..
The best Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini ever. I am literally crazy on this piece.
Me too!
No doubt!
I can feel the restrained maturity and beauty
I absolutely love how both Lugansky and the orchestra performed Variation 12.
Браво, Николай Луганский!
Браво Оркестру и дирижёру!
Браво, Великий Рахманинов!
Je me suis déjà exprimé sur cette version il y a quelques mois,je suis toujours enthousiasmé. Je l'écoute souvent. Quel. merveilleux pianiste. Cette version fera date et restera la version de référence.
Un pianiste merveilleux et unique!Rachmaninov en beauté . Une musique crée pour la main de Nicolaï ! Un rêve.
Rhapsody in a Theme of Paganini est superbe..je ne m’en fatigue …j’aime,ça colle à la peau, c’est merveilleux !Merci.
Everyone else can roll up their little tents and go home now. This is by far the most beautiful piece of music on RUclips.
Любимая часть 15:34 Пожалуй самая прекрасная часть из всех вариаций
The andante cantabile is beautiful pianist and orchestra.
One of the best versions I’ve ever heard….outstanding
Brilliant performance from all concerned. Pianist-best performance in my book. Orch- brilliant, quick tempi: perfection. Conductor- best tempi and perfect meshing of instruments.
Composer: one his best compositions. Rach isn't just good. He is brilliant in every way.
Mr Lugansky's performance of this beautiful, romantic, expressive, and full of creative juices of a composition was so clean and clear! I simply cannot refrain myself from hearing this rendition of my favourite Rachmaninoff (and there I say, in the whole classical music repertoire) composition of all time.
I totally agree! This piece is an emotional tour de force! - and I would add...Lugansky and Rachmaninoff combo are sumptuous rapture! - hypnotic, transcendent, luminous, radiant, triumphant and electrifying. Lugansky is magnificent - I heard him play in Chicago - spellbinding performance! This is also my favorite piano/orchestra composition! Bravo!!
Эта музыка в исполнении Николая Луганского- такое богатство!
1:41 is one of my favorite parts of music EVER! I've been in love with it for so long!watching his fingers never gets old!
It is mesmerizing to be taken inside of the music and be caught up in it hoping that it will never end.
Yes! Playing perfectly with a bandaged finger. A testimony to life’s uncertainty and fickleness. Practice your whole life, arrange a performance date, have a bad finger incident. Fortunately this gentleman could continue. Hope,sir, your finger is fine, and thank you for your wonderful gift to us!
Shows how professional he is. 💕
One of my favorite pianists ❤️❤️❤️ always a pleasure to listen to his interpretations 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
Сегодня 9 сентября 2022, снова слушаю эту рапсодию и наслаждаюсь такой интерпретацией .Слушала сотни раз в исполнении разных оркестров и пианистов. Рахманинов был бы доволен,без сомнения ! Восторг!
Великолепно!
Auch von der Klangqualität (Aufnahme) her ein Genuss !
Lugansky's utterly brilliant at Rachmaninoff! Thanks for posting this.
Divinamente mostruoso! Le sue dita corrono sui tasti come zampilli di una fonte magica, La sua naturelezza sconvolge. Padroneggia il suono come se entrambi fossero fusi in un solo organismo. Credo di non aver mai sentito un'emozione così intensa... e io di musica ne ascolto tanta! Lugansky non suona a memoria, suona con l'anima e la fa volare a chi lo ascolta... - Grande orchestra e bravissimo il maestro Vedernikov.
Provo la stessa emozione forte che lei ha descritto così bene. Io amo il binomio Lugansky-Rachmaninoff. Lugansky mi piace tantissimo anche in Grieg Piano Concerto in A minor.
Mi fa piacere che gli stessi sentimenti e le stesse sensazioni di fronte a queste performance, siano condivise… Ho ascoltato altre suonate di Lugansky che sono altrettanto sublimi… questo artista suona con una naturalezza che disarma… Che meraviglia sapere che la musica ci fa provare emozioni così forti… ❤
@@liciabladelli4258 Dice bene, anche in Grieg piano concerto in A minore il tocco e il fluire delle mani sulla tastiera incanta. Lugansky, ho letto sulla sua biografia, fin da bambino leggeva le note di uno spartito al posto delle fiabe e aveva una memoria straordinaria. Ecco, ora ce lo dimostra con queste interpretazioni che fanno liquefare la dolcezza dentro il cuore di chi ascolta...
ALICIA DE ARGENTINA A VECES LLORO CON LUGANSKY ES MAGICO
Да и кстати, Ведерников просто бомба! Царствие ему небесное!
Жаль, очень жаль …
@@tatianamelpitz6880 Vedernikov with a Japanese orchestra giving one of the best performances of Glazunov's 7th "Pastoral" symphony. It was few years before his death that I "discovered" him. When I heard I couldn't believe he died. I am still sad whenever I watch him conducting. He could have achieved so much more. Then Wanderer posting Lugansky's recital in memory of Vedernikov... Even when he's the darkest Rachmaninov brings you back to life, his music is healing, joy that you are alive. Life without music is poverty of the soul. Rachmaninov's soul was (is) great.
Lugansky si conferma il più grande interprete di Rachmaninoff vivente
Qué maravilla tanto de la orquesta como del pianista.
Bravo to the triangle player at 23:35.
This is the best performance I've heard. Vibrant, full tone, beautiful shading.
Great artist of the century.
Светлая память Александру Ведерникову.
Masterful, commanding. Flawless. Thank you for doing this. My first introduction to Lugansky. What a towering talent.
Amazing piece. Of course it contains the beloved Variation 18, but truly at 7'30" the piece changes perspective and becomes passion from power and confusion. It was this piece and his Piano Concerto No. 2 that really made me a fan. I've loved classical music since I was 12 and my mother played classical music while I did my lessons and listened to the birds chirp to her music, not knowing that it was impacting my own musical talents and desires. Thanks to Rachmaninoff, my mom, and God for providing both for me. :-)
ALL HAIL "THE DIVINE ARCHITECT OF THE UNIVERSE AND CREATOR OF ALL THINGS" FOR MASTERWORKS LIKE THIS.
"I OWE TO GOD THE GIFTS GIVEN TO ME; TO GOD ALONE.
WITHOUT HIM, I AM NOTHING."
Sergei Vasilievich Rachmaninoff
God told me to tell you you're welcome
Var 15 - mercy me, this is just so good. Lugansky doing what Lugansky does best. Reminds me of the Scherzo from the 3rd movement of Concerto 3, sounds like joyous laughter and excitement.
Indeed. Variation 15 was magnificent. I particularly enjoy the staccato he uses at 11:35-11:37
@@jwilliams8210 yeah that's a LH crossing part on the last two notes (G# and A) of the A G# A top note melody. Might just be a result of trying to get LH clear of the RH faster, and using it for a nice musical effect. I love Lugansky, he makes everything sound so good :)
@@paulmayerpiano I agree with you. His interpretations of Rachmaninov's music are some of the best I've ever heard!
This is SO good. Been listening to a lot of Lugansky recordings and really enjoy his Rachmaninov interpretations.
Thanks for sharing!
Lugansky ressuscite Rachmaninov et toute une culture avec , mille bravo !
Beautifully played by Nikolai Lugansky together with the musicians of The Russian National Orchestra - sublime! Thank you for uploading such an exquisite experience.
What a mind blowing composer/pianist Rachmaninov was. With this, Rach 2/3 are my favourites with the WR polka and some of his preludes.
Freddy kempf won the young musician of the year in the early 90s playing this ridiculously technical hard piece at 16 years old. This version played with the great crispness, feeling and virtuosity and a plaster on a finger 😮. I just don’t know how these people remember all the notes. 😮 looks like I’ll have stick to practicing a bit of clementi, Scarlatti, Chopin and Schubert. 😂
Practicing the WR Polka and making good progress. The Sherzando bit in he middle a tricky part but I’m getting there. The run up to the top and back leaving till last.
I can now play it. Practice it every day. Can also play leiberstraum no3. That took 2 weeks to learn
There is so much energy here. Wonderful!!
CELESTIALI!
"Music so beautiful, glorious and prprofound that it could create a soul under the ribs of death!"
John Milton
Thank you John. Couldn't put it better myself
For me... the best....❤
Николай Луганский потрясающий пианист
Now that is how you play the 15th variation...
4:54 - 6:01 I love this part, pure madness😁😁
Lugansky ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹👏
14:51 I love how he accentuates that low Gb. So intense abd nostalgic, it gets me every time. This creates such a beautiful contrast to the following Db.
Браво, браво, брависсимо!!! Блистательно!!! Впрочем, как и всегда!!! Обожаю Луганского!!!
Nikolai Lugansky is my favortive pianist, and I like his hole music.
I really want to see him!!!!^^
Excelente!!!! Fantástica orquestra e maravilhoso pianista. BRAVO!!!!
brilliant performance
Esto lo de Rachmaninof es el maximo nivel en la musica no solo en piano
Эту потрясающую рапсодию называют даже 4- м фортепианным концертом Рахманинова! Слушать её в исполнении любимого пианиста просто необыкновенное наслаждение! Луганского не только интересно слушать, но и приятно смотреть.Мы же не по радио слушаем музыку, а смотрим на исполнителя ,на его руки,лицо.У Луганского никаких картинных закатываний глаз,картинных встряхиваний " гривкой"! Это тоже важно.Не люблю картинных пианистов, будь они и прекрасными исполнителями.Горовиц, Артур Рубинштейн, Гилельс прекрасно обходились без этой "картинности"!
5-м
There is a 4th piano concerto. It's just scarcely ever played.
Не четвёртым, а пятым.
@@saidazulfugarova8912 Да, Вы правы. В моё время в Сов.Союзе не исполнился 4й концерт, по известным причинам, и на слуху было вот такое сравнение .
🌠CELESTIALI!🌠
"Music so beautiful, glorious and prprofound that it could create a soul under the ribs of death!"
John Milton
"Music to soothe the savage breast, soften rocks, and bend the knotted oak."
William Congreve
I daresay that it is the consensus opinion that this is the greatest set of variations ever written for piano, with or without orchestra. It's the
MOUNT EVEREST OF THEM ALL!
This magnificent performance belongs in the Pantheon of the greatest recordings ever made.
Regarding that famous 18th variation, whenever and wherever it is played, the songbirds in the trees pause their own rhapsodic, golden-throated calls whenever those sublime notes fall on their tender ears.
After Rachmaninoff simply inverted the original Paganini tune, out of curiosity, to hear how it would sound, after so doing he rushed to the telephone and called Horowitz, exclaiming in Russian: "I have another hit on my hands!"
"I owe to God the
gifts given to me, to God alone. Without Him, I am nothing."
Sergei Vasilievitch Rachmaninoff
Milton Moore
Las Vegas, Nevada
sensational, its never enough no matter how many times you hear this piece
People do not talk enough about the 12 variation, such a sublime moment of beauty in this piece. I would kill to hear an entire piece built of that short 90 seconds.
RIP Maestro Vedernikov
He has a strap left hand finger 3 ... and he plays without mistake ...
What's a "strap left hand finger 3?"
@@joannabusinessaccount7293 pretty sure they meant a bandaid.
Absolutely amazing! Lugansky gives so much energy to this piece!
Many thanks indeed for posting this sublime performance.
THE FIRST 8 SECONDS TELLS ME everything. About the Composer. The Pianist. The Time. & the Timing.
Resolve. Determination. Precise. Execution. Exact. Effortless. A few careful notes. Produced by a whole lifetime of practice. A few words by the introvert. And then...Variation 18...beautiful, romantic, expressive, and full of creative longings. Andante cantabile. You feel as if you literally need to hold your breath. Cantabile - sing, sing, sing, sing, some more.
I prefer an introvert's understated artistry. No need for wild facial expressions, short mini skirts, gesticulation, extreme youth, botox, or any other additives. I like the lines on his face - he looks very kind, and how he carefully wraps up at the end of Variation 18, as if he has given his best offering. Lugansky is my Artist of choice for every piece of piano music that Rachmaninoff ever wrote.
Rachmaninoff had a medical condition, acromegaly, which led him to have big bones, big hands, and tall stature (he stood somewhere between 6'1" to 6'6") so you can imagine only someone with a larger physical stature could have written such a technical demanding piece that require a lot of raw physical strength (from the the distal finger joints all the up to the shoulders/arm/core body strength). When one is playing this piece, it's not just the fingers that are moving. It's more like that the entire body needs to weigh in - and the entire body needs to dance and coordinate what the musicality needs. see how he jumps up a little bit from the seat. So yes, for this piece, no affirmative action or a politically correct statement. I prefer to a biological male to playing this piece - to carry out what the composer had intended. The ending was just spectacular, no?
It is very much in dispute that Rachmaninoff had acromegaly, never confirmed by research and he doesn't fit characteristics; in fact, he looks fairly normal and look at physical features of people with acromegaly. His hands were large and he was about 6'4". He had what was called lumbago but lots of people do, and Rachmaninoff was in great demand as a concert pianist. He pushed himself till his death age 70 right after a concert.
I enjoyed his performance, and the playing from the Orchestra. His playing was very clean with light use of pedal. I think his bouncing on the bench at times is his style of theatrics. Rather surprising he didn't cancel this engagement with his injured third finger on his left hand which no one has mentioned that I see. Was there anything remaining of his bandage after that double glissandi at the end of the piece? No one seems to play the glissandi the same way (I'm referring to hand position). But he played well and should be pleased with his performance.
Amazing performance, Lugansky and the piano are the same wonderful thing
Truly excellent and enjoyable performance!
Here the piano and orchestra play as one unit and create a symphony, not a concerto.
One feels as though this is Russian ballet with perfect tempi.
It's a concertante - a combination of both symphony and concerto.
I would add the videographer to the mix. Perfect editing and camera angles for this exquisite performance.
The harpist is on stage for basically 24 minutes to
play for only a mere 2-3 seconds, beginning at around 7:55. Why Rachmaninoff scored the harp for only this brief whisper both astonishes and saddens me. I would love to have another harp lover like me create a score with the harp playing a large embellishing role throughout the piece. If someone had done this while Rachmaninoff was alive I doubt very much if he would have been in disfavor. He was still working on revisions
of his fourth piano concerto, including a two piano version, late in his life, but it never came to fruition.
It is difficult to conceive of this performance by Lugansky ever being
exceeded in any aspect by which a performance can be judged. It belongs in the Pantheon of the greatest recordings ever made.
"I OWE TO GOD THE
GIFTS GIVEN TO ME;
TO GOD ALONE. WITHOUT HIM, I AM
NOTHING."
Sergei Vasivielitch
Rachmaninoff
The harp plays in plenty of places throughout the piece.
When the orchestra plays the part of this song from 15:34 to 18:33 it takes me back to the time of imperial russia during the reign and life of the last Tsar/Emperor Nicholas II and his wife Empress Alexandra, his son Tsarevich/Grand Duke Alexis, and his four daughters Grand Duchesses Olga, Tatiana, Marie, and Anastasia. God bless their memory!!!!!
I love this whole piece, especially variation 18 and many others (I'm sure plenty else do too). However, anybody else enjoy the sound of the piano at the start of variation 19?
Gehört zu den überragenden Einspielungen!
i want to say 18 isn't one of the greatest moments in the concerto repertoire, but i can't bring myself to it. i don't care how famous it is, it gets me every fucking time
If you listen to it a bunch by itself i can see how some would find it tiring after a while, but within the context of the whole piece it is so well earned and cathartic.
Still crying every time I hear it.
The 24th variation was actually perfect! Those jumps had surgical accuracy.
Николай Луганский лучший! Мастер, все цельно, продуманно, по - мужски! До мурашек!!! Многих послушала- это самое крутое исполнение! Браво! Трогает до слез!
А мне не понравилось
Хм! Интересно чем это вам не понравилось?
Wow! I love it! Listening to this makes a smile spread across my face. Well done!
Composed 88 years ago in July and August 1934. The very first public performance by Rachmaninov with the Philadelphia Orchestra was in Nov 1934 and I have a CD of the first recording on Christmas Eve 1934. I also have LPs of Katchen, Ortiz, and Ashkenazy. This is just about my No 1 favourite piece of music (With Paganini's 24th Caprice itself). The 2013 Proms video on RUclips with Stephen Hough is another excellent revording, From the visual perspective, I prefer that to this.
Andante cantabile 💕💕 15:32
also my favorite part
Lugansky is superb. Among the very best performances I've ever heard. Incredible, beautiful piece of music. Very under-rated.
THE CONSENSUS OPINION I HAVE GATHERED FROM MUSIC CRITICS IS THAT THIS IS THE GREATEST WORK
RACHMANINOFF EVER COMPOSED. I WOULDN'T SAY THAT
MYSELF, BUT NONE OF HIS OTHER WORKS EXCEEDED THIS IN GREATNESS. HOW DID
YOU COME TO THE CONCLUSION THAT THIS MASTERPIECE IS UNDERVALUED?
@@miltonmoore8369 Вы правы , это одно из величайших произведений Рахманинова! По его значимости , даже называют эту рапсодию 4м концертом Рахманинова! Хотя ,просто,казалось бы, вариации на 24-й каприз Паганини, а получилось грандиозное произведение!
@@galinamelnikova9855
I NOTICE THAT MOST NON-ENGLISH COMMENTS ARE ACCOMPANIED BY A BUTTON TO PUSH WHICH WILL TRANSLATE FOREIGN LANGUAGES INTO ENGLISH. HOPEFULLY YOU CAN LEARN HOW TO ACCOMPLISH THIS, SINCE I CANNOT SPEAK OR READ RUSSIAN.
"SPACEBO"😄.
Por que será, en Rusia hay muchos pianistas ,y todos son muy buenas.gracias maestro
Lugansky EST Rachmaninov ! 🎹🎹
Is that a bandaid on his finger? Amazing! This is a punishing piece for any pianist.
The timeline is in the video description, I also was looking for that XD
-ИДЕАЛЬНО ГЛУБОКО ❤
Never lose this channel. This is a treasure.
Гениально , Маэстро👏👏👏👏
Great performance!!!
The day I learned that Var 18 is simply a few notes of the theme in reverse...seriously broke my brain. If that variation doesn't give you chills...
...well, you're already dead!
I'm very hap, perfect music. I love you.
I could actually feel my breathing going faster during the 18th movement
Un vgran exponente de la magnifica e3scuela rusa de piano.
Mr. Lugansky, those stabs, ARE ON POINT !
21:10 maybe one of the best orchestral variations
Aye