Description

Achúcarro - Brahms Piano Concerto No. 2 | Opus Arte DVD

UPC: 809478010227

Product Features

Composer: Johannes Brahms
Pianist: Joaquín Achúcarro
Conductor: Sir Colin Davis
Orchestra: London Symphony Orchestra
Running Time: Approx. 131 minutes
Audio Format: LPCM Stereo, Surround Sound 4.0 DTS
Subtitles: French, German, Spanish, Italian (documentary only)
Picture Format: 16:9 Anamorphic, NTSC
Region Code: 0 (All Regions)
Label: Opus Arte

Overview

This remarkable DVD celebrates Joaquín Achúcarro's 50-year association with the London Symphony Orchestra, marking the anniversary of his debut after winning the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic International Competition in 1959. In a stunning performance of Johannes Brahms' Piano Concerto No. 2 in B-flat Major, Op. 83, Achúcarro's technical brilliance and emotional depth shine under the direction of the legendary Sir Colin Davis.

Recorded live at Jerwood Hall, St Luke's, London, this performance brings together the passion and refinement that Achúcarro is known for, fully expressing the grandeur and intimacy of Brahms' masterful concerto. The London Symphony Orchestra provides a lush and supportive backdrop, expertly led by Davis, creating a powerful and memorable performance.

Additionally, the DVD includes an insightful documentary, Joaquín Achúcarro: 50 Years On, featuring interviews with luminaries such as Plácido Domingo, Sir Simon Rattle, and Zubin Mehta, highlighting Achúcarro's illustrious career. The DVD also features solo performances by Achúcarro at the Prado Museum, where he performs works by Brahms, Chopin, Scriabin, and Albéniz, adding a deeply personal touch to this tribute.

Interesting Facts

Joaquín Achúcarro is considered one of the great Spanish pianists, known for his profound interpretations of Romantic and Impressionist composers, particularly Brahms and Ravel.
Sir Colin Davis, one of Britain’s most esteemed conductors, had a long and distinguished career with the London Symphony Orchestra, and his collaboration with Achúcarro is one of his memorable partnerships.
Brahms' Piano Concerto No. 2 is known for its symphonic grandeur and challenging piano writing, making it one of the most demanding works in the piano repertoire.
The documentary includes exclusive interviews with world-renowned musicians such as Plácido Domingo, who discuss Achúcarro's influence on classical music over the past five decades.
The Prado Museum solo piano performances provide a rare opportunity to experience Achúcarro’s artistry in an intimate and culturally rich setting, with a selection of pieces that complement the grandeur of Brahms' concerto.