Submitted by Raymond Vacchino M.Mus., Sep 18, 2008 14:29

The only topic of this article I would like to comment on is the performance of the two Chopin Piano Concertos given by pianist, Lang Lang. I have taught both concertos many times, and have heard them performed in concert by some of the greatest pianists , such as Rubenstein, Argerich, Perlemuter, and Kissin, to name a few. I was first introduced to Lang Lang's playing in Toronto at Roy Thompson Hall. He began the concert with Liszt's B minor Sonata, and before he got to the third page, the playing had demonstrated such overblown force, that there was virtually no sonority to be heard! Lang Lang is gifted in terms of virtuosity, and technical bravura, however, when it comes down to "artistry", his abilities are seriously lacking! In his playing of the Chopin F minor Concerto, there are indeed artistic "glimpses", yet the concept of style is not confident, and the sense of continuous, extended line is often missing. As an example; the first movement does convey the 'maestoso' character, yet, when Lang plays into the very beautiful entry,its atmospheric preparation, and spontaneous elaboration, only touches the surface, and the inspiration that is there to be found "behind" the notes, the most important feature, remains unexplored. In the slow movement of the E minor Concerto, entitled "Romance", Lang Lang needs to make his contrasts less dramatic, and convey greater unity, which would allow the continuous outpouring of melody to become more spontaneous and convincing. Jay Nordlinger, tends to acknowledge far greater artistic, and musical accomplishments on Lang Lang's performances. Yet he does take issue with the lack of needed nuances, and areas that reflect a harshness of tone. Lang Lang does indeed have a formidable career, however, the lacking musicality and artistry I sense in his playing, will no doubt change for the better, as he gains greater musical insight, and artistic maturity. Lang Lang seems to have become the Pogorelich of the twenty-first century! I follow Jay Nordlinger's reviews constantly, and despite the fact that we can agree to disagree, only adds more "spice", to the various views of performing arts critics! The entire article only confirms my respect for Jay Nordlinger's musical intelligence, and objective insight! I look forward to commenting on more of his review's in the near future. Raymond Vacchino M.Mus. (Toronto, Canada)

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