Beethoven: Piano Concertos 1-5 - Gilels, Szell

Tower Records Definition Serie TDSA-8 (3 discs)
Stereo Hybrid
Classical - Orchestral
Beethoven: Piano Concertos
Emil Gilels (piano)
The Cleveland Orchestra
George Szell (conductor)
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- Ludwig van Beethoven: Piano Concerto No. 1 in C major, Op. 15
- Ludwig van Beethoven: Piano Concerto No. 2 in B flat major, Op. 19
- Ludwig van Beethoven: Piano Concerto No. 3 in C minor, Op. 37
- Ludwig van Beethoven: Piano Concerto No. 4 in G major, Op. 58
- Ludwig van Beethoven: Piano Concerto No. 5 in E flat major, Op. 73 'Emperor'
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Comment by Athenaeus - April 9, 2019 (1 of 1)
If you like these performances I would say it's worth upgrading to the SACD version. I compared it with the RBCD version and the sound quality is improved. I wouldn't go so far as to say it's a major improvement but it is quite noticeable. The discs also come in a nice sturdy box.
Now, about the actual performances... This is a recording I think one should own because it features two titans, Gilels and Szell. It's a page of classical music history. But I wouldn't qualify it as a great success. In my opinion, there doesn't seem to be much chemistry between Szell and Gilels; and Szell just seems to be in bad spirits. So, if you don't already know these recordings it might be best to listen to them online or on RBCD to make your own opinion before you splurge and purchase the SACD version. If, like me, you're not so keen on them you might as well stick with the RBCD version and save your money for something better.