Beethoven: Piano Concertos No. 1 & No. 5

Chronique

As a soloist, what better way to ensure that your accompanying orchestra possesses both the sound and interpretive skills that match your own playing than to found the orchestra yourself? That is precisely what pianist Barry Douglas has achieved with the Camerata Ireland, which he founded in 1999. Douglas, himself a medalist in both the Tchaikovsky and Cliburn International Piano Competitions, directs the ensemble from the piano in this recording of Beethoven's First and Fifth piano concertos. The orchestra's huge, powerful sound belies its small size. Balance during orchestral tuttis is quite satisfying with plenty of support from the low end of the orchestra. When accompanying the piano, the sound is very sensitive without ever seeming timid. Articulation is energetic and precise. All of these positive traits found in the orchestra are present in Douglas' playing, but even more so. His interpretation of these two great concertos is fresh and vigorous and is neither over romanticized nor stodgy and stiff. The second movement of the Emperor Concerto is breathtaking in its serenity and simplicity while not falling into the all-too-frequent trap of being too slow. The rondo movements of both concertos scintillate with playful exuberance. Truly, this synthesis of soloist and ensemble yield a highly satisfying musical experience well worth checking out.
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