The Cleveland Plain Dealer reviews Leif Ove Andsens’ performances of the Schumann Piano Concerto with the Cleveland Orchestra and Franz Welser Möst

“Here was the jewel in the orchestra’s gift to South Florida this week. A pianist possessed of equal parts strength, sensitivity, and probing insight, Andsnes brought the Schumann to compelling life, rendering it with grandeur and melting lyricism.

“Despite its familiarity, the concerto never sounded routine. In his experienced hands, the music enjoyed all the volatility and high anticipation of a first performance. His first-movement cadenza was a jaw-dropper, the highlight of a brilliant performance, and his robust, sweeping approach to the finale was a breath of a fresh air.

“The Intermezzo, meanwhile, was on another plane entirely. Mercifully free of distractions, Andsnes had the audience hanging on his every phrase, gripped in beautiful suspense. For that, and the rest, Miami can only be grateful.”

 

 

Source: Cleveland Plain Dealer