Rachmaninoff: Symphonic Dances,Op.45 / Suites for 2 Pianos Nos. 1 & 2, Opp. 5,17

Ax and Bronfman went about this project like rock stars, making the recording first (in 1999) for a tour (in 2002). Although both players are major virtuosos, technical prowess is not their first order of business. The ensemble is never loose, but it's also not as razor-sharp as in the identically programmed Argerich-Rabinovitch CD. Instead, there are two personalities at work here, each with his own expressive profile (although, lacking a seating chart, it's hard to tell which is which). These aren't Rachmaninov's greatest hits, so the disc offers gratifying discoveries to listeners who like his music. From the early, thoroughly romantic Suite No. 1, through the mature and completely typical Suite No. 2, to the composer's final work, the Symphonic Dances, all this music represents Rachmaninov at the height of his powers. For some listeners, this original two-piano version of the Dances may even be preferable to the composer's orchestration, which is effective enough, but sounds almost bloated at moments. The rich tonal qualities of the pianos, brilliantly conveyed by Sony's recording, help make these exciting performances the preferred versions of this generous selection (78:49). --Leslie Gerber