de GREEF PLAYS CONCERTI

Arthur de Greef plays concerti by Liszt and Saint-Saens, with both of whom he studied, and Grieg, who considered him its finest exponent.  Grieg wrote in a letter to violinist Ole Bull, "de Greef is the best interpreter of my music I have met with. It is surprising how he understands my meaning. Whether I roam over the mountains or through the valleys, whether I am refined or vigorous, he follows me with a wonderful instinct. I feel happy and honoured by his sympathy for my art. He is a real Master; that I see more and more, just one of those whom you may look for with a lantern all around the musical world."

In addition to these, de Greef plays concerti that are not so named, but given the evolution of the form, could easily enough be counted among the great concerti of the 19th century: The Hungarian Fantasy by Liszt and the Variations Symphoniques (Symphonic Variations) by César Franck whose adventures in large scale forms are a world unto his own.

What is clear from these examples is that de Greef plays concerti as he would the most intimate of works for solo piano.  He is not at war with the orchestra, his is not a virtuosic approach.  And there is a relaxed ease about his playing that results in a very different kind of concerto experience.

Liszt Piano Concerto 1 in E flat Major

Sir Landon Ronald conducting the Royal Albert Hall Orchestra

recorded in 1920

Part 1 of 2