Chopin Recordings Vol 2 (Incls 24 Preludes Op 28 & Ballades Nos 1-4) (Rec 1938-52)

This second volume of Moiseiwitsch's Chopin recordings focuses on the complete Préludes, Op. 28, which the great pianist had attempted to record, unsuccessfully, with the acoustic process, and the Four Ballades. The recording of the complete Préludes is one of the most satisfactory on disc, as Moiseiwitsch captures perfectly the mood of each of these miniature masterpieces. The slower preludes in particular show Moiseiwitsch's understanding of musical phrasing linked to harmonic progressions. In combination with his ideal projection of the singing line, this gives the impression that the music is a living and breathing entity. In the faster preludes, particularly No. 16 and No. 24, Moiseiwitsch never loses control of tempo or dynamics and the ornaments and figuration of the last Prélude become part of the organic whole. The recording of the Ballade No. 4, his only 78rpm recording of the work, derives from a test pressing.