Search - Rachmaninoff, Deyanova, Evrov :: Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini

This Rhapsody contemplates all posible moods

01/05/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I must have been 16 when I first heard Rachmaninov's "Rhapsody on a theme of Paganini" live in London's Royal Albert Hall. At the time (early 80's), I would much rather go to a Rock concert (say, Pink Floyd, Supertramp or Dire Straits) than to a "classical" performance, but as soon as the piano started flirting with the chords, the winds and the vigorous percussion my adrenaline levels were raised and kept high until the last, almost humorous, notes (I find it amusing that, unlike most concerts that end with a loud "bang" of the percussion, this one ends with a few high gay piano notes right after that loud bang of the percussion).I am far from being an expert in classical music and - to my regret - I cannot play any musical instruments, but ever since I heard live this wonderful piece by Rachmaninov, I found the joy of listening to the great masterworks of music. This Rhapsody contemplates almost all the moods I have ever experienced in my daily life: while listening to it, depending on what part of the orchestra recieved from Rachmaninov and the Conductor the protagonic role, one's spirit can be taken from the passionate sound of the trumpets and horns to the peaceful quiteness of a romantic and timid violin; there are melancholy moods, playful piano tunes and even parts when anguish or fear best decribe what you are listening.Finally, I would like to share something personal about this Rhapsody : it has never failed to uplift my spirit when I have been sad or anguished. After experiencing all moods of life in the 20 or 30 minutes that the piece lasts, whatever was bothering me seems untransendental."