These are speedy, rhythmic performances of two of Aaron Copland’s three most famous ballets, and it’s actually a good idea to replace the usual Appalachian Spring with an interesting, worthy, yet neglected piece like the Piano Concerto. This latter work also receives the best performance on the disc. Lorin Hollander is one of those yeoman artists who seems never to have had as big a career, on disc on least, as his talents warranted. Certainly he plays as well, if not better, than more than a few younger pianists I could name who receive far more press, but his Copland concerto is brilliant, glittering, and jazzy. Unlike Rodeo, the presence of a soloist forces Gerard Schwarz to slow down a bit and savor the moment. Billy the Kid isn’t as frantic as “Buckaroo Holiday” and “Hoe Down” in Rodeo, but both ballets are further let down by comparatively dull, low-level sonics (save for a booming bass drum). The concerto is brighter, befitting the interpretation. A mixed bag, then, and a qualified recommendation primarily for the concerto.
