From a historical perspective, this recording of
Martha Argerich performing the
Ravel and
Chopin first piano concertos is truly magnificent. The performances were given in 1959 at the very beginning of
Argerich's career, and long before she became the legendary, venerable pianist she is now. For the
Ravel concerto, the orchestra is led by none other than her husband, conductor
Charles Dutoit, on his very first professional engagement at the podium.
Though early in their respective careers, their immense musical abilities are no less obvious than performances made after their rise to fame.
Argerich's playing is persuasive and never timid, always filled with well-tempered risks. The second movement of the
Ravel is beautiful in its simplicity and tenderness. Sadly, the piano itself seems to be out of tune and the recording quality is not first rate. Likewise,
Dutoit is forced to work with an out of tune and somewhat blunt instrument in the
Orquesta de Camara de Lausanne. The
Chopin First Concerto (conducted by Louis Martin) has similar liabilities with regards to orchestral intonation and sound quality. Still, the opportunity to hear these two musicians at the beginning is quite welcome