Bachtrack.com: High-caliber Schumann and Mahler at Dvořák Prague Festival

The pairing of conductor Daniele Gatti and pianist Kirill Gerstein at this year’s Dvořák Prague Festival promised a special evening, and did not disappoint. Coupled with a superb showing by the Staatskapelle Dresden, their performance offered a riveting account of Schumann’s Piano Concerto in A minor and an insightful reading of Mahler’s sprawling Fifth Symphony. With both artists also bringing a sense of spontaneity, it was like hearing the music for the first time.

Gerstein plays with a combination of cerebral cool and deep passion that served the concerto well, highlighting both its power and lyricism, and rendering the intricate piano runs in mesmerizing detail. From the opening descending chords, his playing was crisp and propulsive, pulling listeners along with irresistible energy. Gerstein also showed himself to be a master of dynamics – fierce in the opening movement, gently seductive in the Intermezzo and just short of overwhelming in a sparkling finale. His carefully calibrated treatment gave the piece both authority and charm.

Continue reading here.