Schumann: Piano Concerto - Brahms: Variations & Fugue on a Theme by Handel (Live in Vienna)

Released 10 years after he retired from performing, this is a wonderful reminder of Alfred Brendel in his prime. The Schumann Piano Concerto, recorded live in 2001 with Simon Rattle and Wiener Philharmoniker, is a magnificent performance close to Brendel’s heart—he himself encouraged its release. And it’s easy to hear why: The pianist’s love and understanding of this concerto is apparent in every bar, and Rattle is a superb partner. Brahms’ Handel Variations, never before recorded by Brendel, is also worth the wait, a joyful balance of heart and head, technique and poetry in complete harmony.