Lugansky - Rachmaninoff, Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini

Sergey Rachmaninov (1873-1943)
Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini in A minor, Op. 43 (1934)
Nikolai Lugansky, soloist
Alexander Vedernikov conducting Russian National Orchestra, 2017
From Moscow Philharmonic Society

[0:00] Introduction: Allegro vivace
[0:17] Var. 1:(Précédente)
[0:37] Tema: L'istesso tempo
[0:56] Var. 2: L'istesso tempo
[1:16] Var. 3: L'istesso tempo
[1:41] Var. 4: Più vivo
[2:11] Var. 5: Tempo precedente
[2:40] Var. 6: L'istesso tempo
[3:42] Var. 7: Meno mosso, a tempo moderato (entrance of Dies irae)
[4:54] Var. 8: Tempo I
[5:29] Var. 9: L'istesso tempo
[6:01] Var. 10: Poco marcato

[6:51] Var. 11: Moderato
[8:12] Var. 12: Tempo di minuetto
[9:35] Var. 13: Allegro
[10:06] Var. 14: L'istesso tempo
[10:52] Var. 15: Più vivo scherzando
[11:58] Var. 16: Allegretto
[13:36] Var. 17: (Allegretto)
[15:32] Var. 18: Andante cantabile

[18:32] Tempo vivace
[18:37] Var. 19: L'istesso tempo
[19:05] Var. 20: Un poco più vivo
[19:41] Var. 21: Un poco più vivo
[20:07] Var. 22: Un poco più vivo (Alla breve)
[21:54] Var. 23: L'istesso tempo
[22:49] Var. 24: A tempo un poco meno mosso

“Unlike any other piano concertos, “Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini” is a thing of its own. Rachmaninoff pays homage to the legendary Paganini by composing 24 variations on the theme of his 24th caprice, but in the end, he sends his hero straight to hell. The composer injects jazz colors into the score, as if engaging a dialogue with Gershwin but unlike the American composer, he clearly feels no enthusiasm for it! Of the many who wrote variations of this caprice, Rachmaninoff is the first to turn it upside down and as a result - one of the most beautiful melodies in the world is born, next to which even its original source pales.”

Moscow Philharmonic Society, 100 Words for a Classic

[dr.kenmahood]

Lugansky is truly a master of Rachmaninoff, perfect tempi, pedalling..the best I've heard.

[penzio]

I was there. It was phenomenal, legendary. The greatest concert experience in my life.

[albertweedsteinthethuggeni]

Not flexing or anything but I have his signature on a cd

[davidcastor]

And with that bandage on one of his left fingers, he turns in one of the best performances ever of this piece. No words.

[prohorakand]

His transition form 17 to 18 is literally perfect. Easily one of the most favorite transitions in classical music

[mooster]

Everyone else can roll up their little tents and go home now. This is by far the most beautiful piece of music on YouTube.

[jerrera]

The andante cantabile still give me goose bumps after all these 75 years I've been listening to this masterpiece .

[stxer]

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.

[Dr_Alexius]

"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.

[uptklpn]

Браво, Сергею Рахманинову! Браво, Николаю Луганскому. Оркестру!!!

[Thearbiter]

I absolutely love how both Lugansky and the orchestra performed Variation 12.

[myriamefierens]

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.

[mermodfreres]

One of the best versions I’ve ever heard….outstanding

[vantrongkiet]

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

[pacrimco]

It is mesmerizing to be taken inside of the music and be caught up in it hoping that it will never end.

[domenicoantonioborsella]

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.

[jacquespelletier]

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.

[RobWiebePhotography]

This is SO good. Been listening to a lot of Lugansky recordings and really enjoy his Rachmaninov interpretations.
Thanks for sharing!

[blackjaguarink]

One of my favorite pianists ❤️❤️❤️ always a pleasure to listen to his interpretations 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[hyeinjung]

The best Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini ever. I am literally crazy on this piece.