Although numerous CD incarnations of Sviatoslav Richter’s Deustche Grammophon recordings have graced the catalog, collectors surely will welcome this complete “original jacket” edition, programmed in accordance with the original LPs and newly remastered. These 1956-62 recordings capture Richter in his prime, and include performances that not only retain reference status (the Rachmaninov Second and Profokiev Fifth concertos with Rowicki, selected Rachmaninov Preludes, Prokofiev’s Eighth sonata, plus Schumann’s Waldszenen and Toccata) but also belie Richter’s often expressed aversion to studio recordings.
Granted, the Tchaikovsky First with Karajan and Beethoven Third with Sanderling are relatively staid in relation to alternative Richter studio versions on other labels. No complaints, however, regarding material stemming from the pianist’s 1962 tour of Italy that contains long-held favorites among Richter fans such as the Chopin Fourth Ballade, the Scriabin Fifth sonata, Debussy’s Estampes, and, for my money, the best recording ever made of Schumann’s Op. 1 Abegg Variations–well, one of the two or three best, anyway! Consider this release a one-stop shop for those seeking a well-rounded survey of Richter’s multifaceted, individual, and occasionally idiosyncratic artistry.
