Warner Classics / 2008
Ballad for Edvard Grieg
Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra; Ole Kristian Ruud, conductor
“Andsnes is an aristocrat among pianists who has the gift of uncovering new depths without any loss of spontaneity of the slightest trace of artifice.” – *****
About
“I always feel a sense of homecoming when I perform Grieg yet I don’t think that this is necessarily because I am Norwegian. Grieg’s music has a universal feeling – a sense of drawing the listener in – and that is probably why he remains Norway’s most eminent composer even now, 100 years after his death.” Leif Ove Andsnes
Lyric Pieces, recorded on Grieg’s own piano at his house in Troldhaugen, just outside Bergen
Track Listing
Edvard Grieg
1. Ballade in G minor, op.24
Lyric Pieces: Book 1 (8), op.12
2. no.1 Arietta
3. no.5 Folk Tune
4. no.6 Norwegian Melody
Lyric Pieces: Book 6 (6), op.57
5. no.6 Homesickness
Lyric Pieces: Book 8 (6), op.65
6. no.6 Wedding Day at Troldhaugen
Lyric Pieces: Book 9 (6), op.68
7. no.3 At your feet (For dine fotter)
8. Piano Concerto in A minor, op.16
How hard it is to over-praise the vitality and distinction of this princely pianist… His authority and finesse are total. Finely recorded, this disc is the best possible introduction to Grieg’s range and character in his piano music.