Beethoven with Pollini and Böhm

A quick tribute to the remarkable pianist Maurizio Pollini, who has died at age 82, in the form of one of my favorite recordings.

It is Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 4, here in a magnificent 1976 performance by Pollini and the Vienna Philharmonic, conducted by Karl Böhm.

The quality of this recording is evident from the opening bars. The pianist's astonishing perfection is beautifully set off by the warmth of the Vienna Philharmonic under the masterful Böhm.

In The Gramophone, Richard Osborne wrote: "Pollini’s performance is both brilliant and beautifully proportioned; driven but never over-driven, fierce but only to glowing point," adding that "Böhm and the Vienna Philharmonic are ideal partners."

David Hall's verdict in Stereo Review: "The slow movement is, as it should be, the high point, altogether moving in its flawless blend of tonal beauty and gripping drama. The finale ripples along its joyous way in the most satisfying manner imaginable."

I have treasured this LP since it came out in 1977, when I had very little money and almost never bought full-price albums. This was an exception. I found the record awe-inspiring nearly 50 years ago, and still think so today.

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