Schubert, Franz/Bartók, Béla/Szymanowski, Karol/Prokofieff, Serge: Sviatoslav Richter plays... (BBC Legends Audio CD)

Recorded: Royal Festival Hall, London, 7 December 1970

Sviatoslav Richter (piano)


A much sought-after and rare recital of the great Sviatoslav Richter featuring unusual repertoire - Szymanowski and Bartok.

Richter gave the premiere of the Prokofiev Sonata No.7 'Stalingrad' in 1943. It is a tour de force and shows off Richter's incomparable technique and power. Richter also gave premieres of Prokofiev's Sonata No.6 and No.9 and remained a close friend of the composer during his lifetime.

Richter was perhaps the first great pianist to promote the Schubert sonatas and recorded all of them including the incomplete ones (with the curious omission of the A major D959). He was also credited with raising their profile to that accorded to Beethoven and Mozart.

Recorded at a packed Royal Festival Hall In 1970 when Richter was at the height of his powers and fame.

BBC Legends has the largest catalogue of Richter broadcasts which have all sold exceptionally well.