Emil Gilels (1916–1985), along with Sviatoslav Richter, was one of the most celebrated pianists of the 20th century. These rare broadcast recordings make their first appearance on CD.

The live recording of the Beethoven Piano Concerto No.4 from the 1966 Edinburgh Festival, together with the distinguished accompaniment of Sir John Barbirolli, produce a performance of great poetry, imagination and power. Gilels had a wonderful, discriminating ear and throughout the concerto brings a chamber music quality to his playing when the score demands.

Gilels recorded the work in the studio in 1957 and 1968 but there are very few live performances available where the pianist is ‘caught on the wing’ in good sound.

The Tchaikovsky Piano Concerto No.2 in the abridged version by Siloti from 1959 brings out Gilels’ incredible technique and virtuosity (The New York Times dubbed him ‘the little giant’), with Kirill Kondrashin transforming the LPO into an authentic Russian-sounding orchestra.

Ambient Mastering adds an extra dimension to these distinguished performances recorded over 45 years ago.

Contents:
- Beethoven: Piano Concerto No.4
Hallé Orchestra / Sir John Barbirolli
Edinburgh Festival, Usher Hall, Edinburgh, 13 September 1966

- Tchaikovsky: Piano Concerto No.2 (Siloti version)
London Philharmonic Orchestra / Kirill Kondrashin
BBC Maida Vale Studios, London, 23 February 1959