Description

Sviatoslav Richter: Mozart & Chopin - Classic Archive (DVD)

UPC: 899132000503

Product Features

Pianist: Sviatoslav Richter
Composers: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Frédéric Chopin, Sergei Rachmaninoff
Works Performed:
- Mozart:
  - Piano Sonata No. 4 in E-flat Major, K.282
  - Piano Sonata No. 16 in C Major, K.545
  - Piano Sonata No. 8 in A minor, K.310
- Chopin:
  - Études, Op. 10 Nos. 1-4, 6, 10-12
  - Études, Op. 25 Nos. 5, 6, 8, 11
- Rachmaninoff:
  - Étude-Tableau, Op. 39 No. 3
Bonus Features:Subtitles: None (performance)
- Additional Chopin Études: Op. 10 Nos. 4, 12
- Broadcast by BBC on 28 October 1969
- Filmed recital from the Barbican Centre, London, 29 March 1989
Audio Format: PCM Stereo
Aspect Ratio: NTSC format
Running Time: Not specified (approximately 90 minutes)
Region Code: All regions (NTSC format)
Publisher: EuroArts
Release Date: 2008

Overview

This DVD presents an exceptional performance by the legendary pianist Sviatoslav Richter, showcasing his interpretations of Mozart and Chopin. Recorded in two different settings—one for the BBC in 1969 and a live recital at the Barbican Centre in 1989—Richter's musical genius is on full display.

Known for his intense and focused performances, Richter brings out the beauty and complexity of Mozart’s piano sonatas, especially Sonata No. 8 in A minor, K.310, which captures both the lyrical and dramatic sides of the composer. The Chopin Études demonstrate Richter’s mastery of technical brilliance and emotional depth, from the fiery Op. 10 No. 4 to the haunting Op. 10 No. 12 (Revolutionary).

The circumstances surrounding the 1989 Barbican recital add a unique dimension to this recording. Richter, famously averse to filmed performances, insisted on minimal lighting, with only a single 40-watt bulb illuminating his sheet music. This unusual request results in a performance focused solely on the music, enhancing the intimacy and intensity of the concert.

Interesting Facts

Richter’s Filming Conditions: At the Barbican recital, Richter insisted on a single 40-watt light to focus all attention on the music, a practice he adopted in his later years.
Minimal Visuals: Due to Richter’s aversion to being filmed, the video shows only limited glimpses of the pianist, adding an element of mystery to his powerful performance.
Legendary Reputation: Richter is widely regarded as one of the greatest pianists of the 20th century, known for his meticulous preparation and profound interpretations of the classical repertoire.

Track Listing

Mozart - Piano Sonata No. 4 in E-flat Major, K.282
Mozart - Piano Sonata No. 16 in C Major, K.545
Mozart - Piano Sonata No. 8 in A minor, K.310
Chopin - Études, Op. 10 Nos. 1-4, 6, 10-12
Chopin - Études, Op. 25 Nos. 5, 6, 8, 11
Rachmaninoff - Étude-Tableau, Op. 39 No. 3

Publishers

EuroArts: A leading producer of high-quality classical music performances on DVD and Blu-ray, known for documenting the greatest artists in live performances.