Disc 01 Konzert f?r Klavier und Orchester Nr. 1 C-Dur op. 15
01. Emil Gilels/Cleveland Orchestra/George Szell "1. Allegro con brio" Piano Concerto No.1 in C Op.15 (1996 Remastered Version): II. Largo
02. Emil Gilels/Cleveland Orchestra/George Szell "2. Largo" Piano Concerto No.1 in C Op.15 (1996 Remastered Version): III. Rondo (Allegro scherzando) [ Cadenzas by Beethoven]
03. Emil Gilels/Cleveland Orchestra/George Szell "3. Rondo: Allegro scherzando" Konzert f?r Klavier und Orchester Nr. 2 B-Dur op. 19
04. Emil Gilels/Cleveland Orchestra/George Szell "1. Allegro con brio" Piano Concerto No. 2 in B flat Op. 19 (1996 Remastered Version): II. Adagio
05. Emil Gilels/Cleveland Orchestra/George Szell "2. Adagio" Piano Concerto No. 2 in B flat Op. 19 (1996 Remastered Version): III. Rondo (molto allegro)
06. Emil Gilels/Cleveland Orchestra/George Szell "3. Rondo: Molto allegro"
Disc 02 Konzert f?r Klavier und Orchester Nr. 3 c-moll op. 37
01. Emil Gilels/Cleveland Orchestra/George Szell "1. Allegro con brio" Piano Concerto No.3 in C Minor Op.37 (1996 Remastered Version): Largo
02. Emil Gilels/Cleveland Orchestra/George Szell "2. Largo" Piano Concerto No.3 in C Minor Op.37 (1996 Remastered Version): Rondo (Allegro - Presto)
03. Emil Gilels/Cleveland Orchestra/George Szell "3. Rondo: Allegro - Presto" Konzert f?r Klavier und Orchester Nr. 4 G-Dur op. 58
04. Emil Gilels/George Szell "1. Allegro moderato" Concerto for Piano and Orchestra No. 4 in G Op. 58 (1996 Remastered Version): II. Andante con moto
05. Emil Gilels/Cleveland Orchestra/George Szell "2. Andante con moto" Concerto for Piano and Orchestra No. 4 in G Op. 58 (1996 Remastered Version): III. Rondo (Vivace)
06. Emil Gilels/Cleveland Orchestra/George Szell "3. Rondo: Vivace"
Disc 03 Konzert f?r Klavier und Orchester Nr. 5 Es-Dur op. 73
01. Cleveland Orchestra "1. Allegro" Concerto for Piano and Orchestra No. 5, 'Emperor' Op. 73 (1996 Remastered Version): Adagio un poco mosso
02. Emil Gilels/Cleveland Orchestra/George Szell "2. Adagio un poco mosso" Concerto for Piano and Orchestra No. 5, 'Emperor' Op. 73 (1996 Remastered Version): Rondo (Allegro)
03. Emil Gilels/Cleveland Orchestra/George Szell "3. Rondo: Allegro - Pi? allegro" 32 Variationen ?ber ein eigenes Thema c-moll WoO 80
04. Gilels, Emil "Thema: Allegretto" 32 Variations in C minor on an original theme WoO80 (1996 Remastered Version): Variations I - III
05. Gilels, Emil "Variationen Nr. 1-3" 32 Variations in C minor on an original theme WoO80 (1996 Remastered Version): Variations IV & V
06. Gilels, Emil "Variation 4 - Variation 5" 32 Variations in C minor on an original theme WoO80 (1996 Remastered Version): Variation VI
07. Gilels, Emil "Variation 6" 32 Variations in C minor on an original theme WoO80 (1996 Remastered Version): Variation VII & VIII
08. Gilels, Emil "Variation 7 - Variation 8" 32 Variations in C minor on an original theme WoO80 (1996 Remastered Version): Variations IX - XI
09. Gilels, Emil "Variationen Nr. 9-11" 32 Variations in C minor on an original theme WoO80 (1996 Remastered Version): Variation XII
10. Gilels, Emil "Variation 12" 32 Variations in C minor on an original theme WoO80 (1996 Remastered Version): Variations XIII & XIV
11. Gilels, Emil "Variation 13 - Variation 14" 32 Variations in C minor on an original theme WoO80 (1996 Remastered Version): Variations XV - XVIII
12. Gilels, Emil "Variationen Nr. 15-18" 32 Variations in C minor on an original theme WoO80 (1996 Remastered Version): Variations XIX - XXII
13. Gilels, Emil "Variationen Nr. 19-22" 32 Variations in C minor on an original theme WoO80 (1996 Remastered Version): Variations XXIII - XXV
14. Gilels, Emil "Variatioen Nr. 23-25" 32 Variations in C minor on an original theme WoO80 (1996 Remastered Version): Variations XXVI & XXVII
15. Gilels, Emil "Variation 26 - Variation 27" 32 Variations in C minor on an original theme WoO80 (1996 Remastered Version): Variations XXVIII
16. Gilels, Emil "Variation 28" 32 Variations in C minor on an original theme WoO80 (1996 Remastered Version): Variations XXIX & XXX
17. Gilels, Emil "Variation 29 - Variation 30" 32 Variations in C minor on an original theme WoO80 (1996 Remastered Version): Variations XXXI & XXXII
18. Gilels, Emil "Variation 31 - Variation 32" 12 Variationen ?ber den russischen Tanz aus Wranitzkys Das Waldm?dchen A-Dur WoO 71
19. Gilels, Emil "Thema: Allegretto" 12 Variations (in A) on a Russian dance from Paul Wranitzky's ballet 'Das Waldm?dchen' WoO71 (1996 Remastered Version):
20. Gilels, Emil "Variation 1" 12 Variations (in A) on a Russian dance from Paul Wranitzky's ballet 'Das Waldm?dchen' WoO71 (1996 Remastered Version):
21. Gilels, Emil "Variation 2" 12 Variations (in A) on a Russian dance from Paul Wranitzky's ballet 'Das Waldm?dchen' WoO71 (1996 Remastered Version):
22. Gilels, Emil "Variation 3" 12 Variations (in A) on a Russian dance from Paul Wranitzky's ballet 'Das Waldm?dchen' WoO71 (1996 Remastered Version):
23. Gilels, Emil "Variation 4" 12 Variations (in A) on a Russian dance from Paul Wranitzky's ballet 'Das Waldm?dchen' WoO71 (1996 Remastered Version):
24. Gilels, Emil "Variation 5" 12 Variations (in A) on a Russian dance from Paul Wranitzky's ballet 'Das Waldm?dchen' WoO71 (1996 Remastered Version):
25. Gilels, Emil "Variation 6" 12 Variations (in A) on a Russian dance from Paul Wranitzky's ballet 'Das Waldm?dchen' WoO71 (1996 Remastered Version):
26. Gilels, Emil "Variation 7" 12 Variations (in A) on a Russian dance from Paul Wranitzky's ballet 'Das Waldm?dchen' WoO71 (1996 Remastered Version):
27. Gilels, Emil "Variation 8" 12 Variations (in A) on a Russian dance from Paul Wranitzky's ballet 'Das Waldm?dchen' WoO71 (1996 Remastered Version):
28. Gilels, Emil "Variation 9" 12 Variations (in A) on a Russian dance from Paul Wranitzky's ballet 'Das Waldm?dchen' WoO71 (1996 Remastered Version):
29. Gilels, Emil "Variation 10" 12 Variations (in A) on a Russian dance from Paul Wranitzky's ballet 'Das Waldm?dchen' WoO71 (1996 Remastered Version):
30. Gilels, Emil "Variation 11" 12 Variations (in A) on a Russian dance from Paul Wranitzky's ballet 'Das Waldm?dchen' WoO71 (1996 Remastered Version):
31. Gilels, Emil "Variation 12 - Coda" 6 Variationen ?ber den t?rkischen Marsch aus Die Ruinen von Athen D-Dur op. 76
32. Gilels, Emil "Thema: Allegro risoluto" 6 Variations (in D) on a Turkish March from 'Die Ruinen von Athen' Op. 76 (1996 Remastered Version): Variation I 33. Gilels, Emil "Variation 1" 6 Variations (in D) on a Turkish March from 'Die Ruinen von Athen' Op. 76 (1996 Remastered Version): Variation II - 34. Gilels, Emil "Variation 2" 6 Variations (in D) on a Turkish March from 'Die Ruinen von Athen' Op. 76 (1996 Remastered Version): Variation III - 35. Gilels, Emil "Variation 3" 6 Variations (in D) on a Turkish March from 'Die Ruinen von Athen' Op. 76 (1996 Remastered Version): Variation IV - 36. Gilels, Emil "Variation 4" 6 Variations (in D) on a Turkish March from 'Die Ruinen von Athen' Op. 76 (1996 Remastered Version): Variation V - 37. Gilels, Emil "Variation 5" 6 Variations (in D) on a Turkish March from 'Die Ruinen von Athen' Op. 76 (1996 Remastered Version): Variation VI, Prest 38. Gilels, Emil "Variation 6: Presto - Tempo 1"
Description:
This CD edition, "Klavierkonzerte 1-5 / Klaviervariationen" with Emil Gilels and George Szell on Warner Classics, presents a landmark cycle of piano concertos complemented by masterfully crafted piano variations. At the center stands Emil Gilels, whose noble tone, crystalline articulation and unwavering musical integrity have long made him one of the most respected pianists of the 20th century. Under the baton of George Szell, known for his exacting standards, structural clarity and exceptional orchestral discipline, these performances combine fiery virtuosity with deep architectural understanding, revealing both the grandeur and the intimate lyricism of the scores. The recording balances orchestral brilliance and pianistic subtlety, offering both large-scale drama and finely chiseled detail that will satisfy demanding collectors and newcomers alike.
The selection of works allows the listener to follow a complete artistic arc: from the youthful energy of the early concertos to the maturity and emotional depth of the later ones, framed by piano variations that illuminate the composer's inventive handling of thematic material. Gilels' touch--from silken pianissimos to thunderous climaxes--shows the full expressive range of the modern concert grand without ever sacrificing musical line or balance with the orchestra. Szell's leadership ensures unfailing clarity of texture, sharply profiled rhythmic drive and a transparent orchestral sonority that highlights inner voices and counterpoint. The result is a cycle that has often been cited as a benchmark for its combination of technical perfection, stylistic authority and poetic insight.
Emil Gilels (1916-1985) is widely regarded as one of the towering pianists of his era, celebrated for his Beethoven, Brahms and Russian repertoire and for a discography that set interpretive standards still referenced today. His career included major appearances with leading orchestras across Europe and America, acclaimed studio recordings and numerous awards that cemented his reputation as a musician of uncompromising seriousness and depth. George Szell (1897-1970), long-time music director of the Cleveland Orchestra, transformed that ensemble into one of the world's finest, earning renown for his incisive interpretations of the Classical and Romantic repertoire and for recordings that remain reference versions decades after their release.
Warner Classics, the label behind this issue, is one of the leading names in classical music recording and catalog curation. Bringing together historic and modern recordings under one umbrella, Warner Classics is known for its commitment to high production values, carefully remastered reissues and collaborations with many of the most important artists and orchestras in the classical world. Collectors value the label for its extensive catalog, thoughtful presentation and ongoing efforts to keep milestone interpretations such as these in circulation in excellent sound.
Disc 1
01 Piano Concerto No.1 in C Op.15 (1996 Digital Remaster): I. Allegro con brio - Emil Gilels/Cleveland Orchestra/George Szell
02 Piano Concerto No.1 in C Op.15 (1996 Digital Remaster): II. Largo - Emil Gilels/Cleveland Orchestra/George Szell
03 Piano Concerto No.1 in C Op.15 (1996 Digital Remaster): III. Rondo (Allegro scherzando) [ Cadenzas by Beethoven] - Emil Gilels/Cleveland Orchestra/George Szell
04 Piano Concerto No. 2 in B flat Op. 19 (1996 Digital Remaster): I. Allegro moderato - Emil Gilels/Cleveland Orchestra/George Szell
05 Piano Concerto No. 2 in B flat Op. 19 (1996 Digital Remaster): II. Adagio - Emil Gilels/Cleveland Orchestra/George Szell
06 Piano Concerto No. 2 in B flat Op. 19 (1996 Digital Remaster): III. Rondo (molto allegro) - Emil Gilels/Cleveland Orchestra/George Szell
Disc 2
01 Piano Concerto No.3 in C Minor Op.37 (1996 Digital Remaster): Allegro con brio - Emil Gilels/Cleveland Orchestra/George Szell
02 Piano Concerto No.3 in C Minor Op.37 (1996 Digital Remaster): Largo - Emil Gilels/Cleveland Orchestra/George Szell
03 Piano Concerto No.3 in C Minor Op.37 (1996 Digital Remaster): Rondo (Allegro - Presto) - Emil Gilels/Cleveland Orchestra/George Szell
04 Concerto for Piano and Orchestra No. 4 in G Op. 58 (1996 Digital Remaster): I. Allegro moderato - Emil Gilels/George Szell
05 Concerto for Piano and Orchestra No. 4 in G Op. 58 (1996 Digital Remaster): II. Andante con moto - Emil Gilels/Cleveland Orchestra/George Szell
06 Concerto for Piano and Orchestra No. 4 in G Op. 58 (1996 Digital Remaster): III. Rondo (Vivace) - Emil Gilels/Cleveland Orchestra/George Szell
Disc 3
01 Beethoven: Piano Concerto No. 5 in E-Flat Major, 'Emperor' Op. 73: I. Allegro - Cleveland Orchestra
02 Concerto for Piano and Orchestra No. 5, 'Emperor' Op. 73 (1996 Digital Remaster): Adagio un poco mosso - Emil Gilels/Cleveland Orchestra/George Szell
03 Concerto for Piano and Orchestra No. 5, 'Emperor' Op. 73 (1996 Digital Remaster): Rondo (Allegro) - Emil Gilels/Cleveland Orchestra/George Szell
04 32 Variations in C minor on an original theme WoO80 (1996 Digital Remaster): Thema. Allegretto - - Emil Gilels
05 32 Variations in C minor on an original theme WoO80 (1996 Digital Remaster): Variations I - III - Emil Gilels
06 32 Variations in C minor on an original theme WoO80 (1996 Digital Remaster): Variations IV & V - Emil Gilels
07 32 Variations in C minor on an original theme WoO80 (1996 Digital Remaster): Variation VI - Emil Gilels
08 32 Variations in C minor on an original theme WoO80 (1996 Digital Remaster): Variation VII & VIII - Emil Gilels
09 32 Variations in C minor on an original theme WoO80 (1996 Digital Remaster): Variations IX - XI - Emil Gilels
10 32 Variations in C minor on an original theme WoO80 (1996 Digital Remaster): Variation XII - Emil Gilels
11 32 Variations in C minor on an original theme WoO80 (1996 Digital Remaster): Variations XIII & XIV - Emil Gilels
12 32 Variations in C minor on an original theme WoO80 (1996 Digital Remaster): Variations XV - XVIII - Emil Gilels
13 32 Variations in C minor on an original theme WoO80 (1996 Digital Remaster): Variations XIX - XXII - Emil Gilels
14 32 Variations in C minor on an original theme WoO80 (1996 Digital Remaster): Variations XXIII - XXV - Emil Gilels
15 32 Variations in C minor on an original theme WoO80 (1996 Digital Remaster): Variations XXVI & XXVII - Emil Gilels
16 32 Variations in C minor on an original theme WoO80 (1996 Digital Remaster): Variations XXVIII - Emil Gilels
17 32 Variations in C minor on an original theme WoO80 (1996 Digital Remaster): Variations XXIX & XXX - Emil Gilels
18 32 Variations in C minor on an original theme WoO80 (1996 Digital Remaster): Variations XXXI & XXXII - Emil Gilels
19 12 Variations (in A) on a Russian dance from Paul Wranitzky's ballet 'Das Waldmädchen' WoO71 (1996 Digital Remaster): Thema. Allegretto - - Emil Gilels
20 12 Variations (in A) on a Russian dance from Paul Wranitzky's ballet 'Das Waldmädchen' WoO71 (1996 Digital Remaster): Variation I - Emil Gilels
21 12 Variations (in A) on a Russian dance from Paul Wranitzky's ballet 'Das Waldmädchen' WoO71 (1996 Digital Remaster): Variation II - - Emil Gilels
22 12 Variations (in A) on a Russian dance from Paul Wranitzky's ballet 'Das Waldmädchen' WoO71 (1996 Digital Remaster): Variation III - - Emil Gilels
23 12 Variations (in A) on a Russian dance from Paul Wranitzky's ballet 'Das Waldmädchen' WoO71 (1996 Digital Remaster): Variation IV - - Emil Gilels
24 12 Variations (in A) on a Russian dance from Paul Wranitzky's ballet 'Das Waldmädchen' WoO71 (1996 Digital Remaster): Variation V - - Emil Gilels
25 12 Variations (in A) on a Russian dance from Paul Wranitzky's ballet 'Das Waldmädchen' WoO71 (1996 Digital Remaster): Variation VI - - Emil Gilels
26 12 Variations (in A) on a Russian dance from Paul Wranitzky's ballet 'Das Waldmädchen' WoO71 (1996 Digital Remaster): Variation VII - - Emil Gilels
27 12 Variations (in A) on a Russian dance from Paul Wranitzky's ballet 'Das Waldmädchen' WoO71 (1996 Digital Remaster): Variation VIII - - Emil Gilels
28 12 Variations (in A) on a Russian dance from Paul Wranitzky's ballet 'Das Waldmädchen' WoO71 (1996 Digital Remaster): Variation IX - - Emil Gilels
29 12 Variations (in A) on a Russian dance from Paul Wranitzky's ballet 'Das Waldmädchen' WoO71 (1996 Digital Remaster): Variation X - - Emil Gilels
30 12 Variations (in A) on a Russian dance from Paul Wranitzky's ballet 'Das Waldmädchen' WoO71 (1996 Digital Remaster): Variation XI - - Emil Gilels
31 12 Variations (in A) on a Russian dance from Paul Wranitzky's ballet 'Das Waldmädchen' WoO71 (1996 Digital Remaster): Variation XII - Emil Gilels
32 6 Variations (in D) on a Turkish March from 'Die Ruinen von Athen' Op. 76 (1996 Digital Remaster): Thema. Allegro risoluto - - Emil Gilels
33 6 Variations (in D) on a Turkish March from 'Die Ruinen von Athen' Op. 76 (1996 Digital Remaster): Variation I - Emil Gilels
34 6 Variations (in D) on a Turkish March from 'Die Ruinen von Athen' Op. 76 (1996 Digital Remaster): Variation II - - Emil Gilels
35 6 Variations (in D) on a Turkish March from 'Die Ruinen von Athen' Op. 76 (1996 Digital Remaster): Variation III - - Emil Gilels
36 6 Variations (in D) on a Turkish March from 'Die Ruinen von Athen' Op. 76 (1996 Digital Remaster): Variation IV - - Emil Gilels
37 6 Variations (in D) on a Turkish March from 'Die Ruinen von Athen' Op. 76 (1996 Digital Remaster): Variation V - - Emil Gilels
38 6 Variations (in D) on a Turkish March from 'Die Ruinen von Athen' Op. 76 (1996 Digital Remaster): Variation VI, Presto - Tempo I - Emil Gilels
Concerto
3.384
- Accordion 6- Bassoon 18- Bugle 35- Cello 200- Clarinet 62- Double Bass 8- Early Instrum. 11- Flute 84- Guitar 28- Harp 17- Harpsichord 26- Lute 4- Mandolin 4- Oboe 45- Organ 34- Other Concerto 9- Other Concerto 1.298- Percussion 7- Piano 727- Recorder 18- Saxophone 19- Solo Instruments 33- Trombone 15- Trumpet 85- Tuba 9- Viola 23- Violin 559Other Classic 3.446Symphonic Music 14.529
