György Ligeti: Concertos for Cello / Violin / Piano - Pierre Boulez / Ensemble InterContemporain

These are three of György Ligeti's more popular works, with the word "popular" used with some hesitation. Ligeti is about as post-modern as you can get. The works here are played quite aggressively by the Ensemble InterContemporain, but I prefer the Concerto for Piano and Orchestra on Sony 58945. I do like Boulez's take on the Concerto for Violoncello and Orchestra. It's a practically silent work, almost impossible to play--but the Ensemble InterContemporain pulls it off. The Concerto for Violin and Orchestra is also expertly played. Ligeti is an acquired taste. If Ligeti is your man, you'll want this release. --Paul Cook