Havard Gimse turns in an exceptionally fine performance of the perennially fresh Grieg Piano Concerto. He launches the first movement with apt bravura, and it’s very gratifying to hear him collaborating with conductor Bjarte Engeset in a swift basic tempo that never sags in the movement’s later, more lyrical stages. In fact, my only criticism of the performance stems from Gimse’s habit of inserting hairpin dynamic adjustments in passages that hardly need them (the opening theme of the finale, for instance). Otherwise, there’s more than enough thrilling playing to justify a firm recommendation, including a terrific first-movement cadenza and a wonderful account of the closing pages.
The remainder of the disc only reinforces my enthusiasm. Engeset’s enthusiastic romp through the Symphonic Dances (particularly the lengthy last movement) makes this one of the very best renditions available, and he has the Royal Scottish National Orchestra playing with typical élan. The overture In Autumn makes an ideal opener to a program that effectively comprises an entire Grieg concert, one that not only projects the music in well-nigh ideal form but demonstrates that this composer has more substance than his detractors would allow. As usual from this source, the sonics are excellent, and the SACD, a bit too much middle-channel emphasis aside, offers added depth and impact without excessive reverberation or recourse to the rear speakers. A winner!
