1} Marche slave, Op. 31
2} Potpourri on Themes from the Opera The Voyeveda
3} Theme and Variations from Orchestral Suite No. 3 in G major, Op. 55
4} Serenade in C major for String Orchestra, Op. 48

For such a powerful work as Tchaikovsky's Marche slave, which conveys its powerful imagery through its impressive orchestration, to come to life when played on a single piano, requires an interpretation that sees right through the notes printed on the score and focuses on the spirit and raison d'être behind the music. And pianist Anthony Goldstone delivers such an interpretation. He overrides the technical demands (this "transcription de concert" by H. Hanke is loaded with them), and by doing so, delivers as rousing and scenic a version as 80 orchestral musicians. The only thing missing is cymbals attached to his feet.

This version of the Marche slave is a world première recording, and so are the Theme and Variations from Orchestral Suite No. 3 in G major, Op. 55 and the Serenade in C major for String Orchestra, Op. 48 both transcribed for the keyboard by Max Lippold and Anthony Goldstone himself. His arrangement of the famous Waltz in the Serenade is both scholarly and whimsical. In every instance, Goldstone displays an uncanny ability to clearly define the melodic lines that run throughout these scores, and never allows his perfectly judged use of the sustain pedal to muddle the quasi-orchestral textures. This level of musicianship makes the orchestra redundant. Highly recommended to all pianophiles and Tchaikovsky fans alike!

Jean-Yves Duperron - July 2012