Brahms - Piano Concerto No. 2 in B-flat major (Hélène Grimaud)

[@peterbellot7521]

So grateful to live in a time when I can listen to this beautiful music so effortlessly with a good pair of headphones. I live in a little island called Dominica with zero chance of seeing such a performance live! What a comfort to my advancing years. Thanks all!

[@BrucknerMotet]

Good "cans" (i.e., over the ear high-fidelity headphones) can really help bring you into the experience of listening to great music and videos better than earbuds, or cheaper headphones. Really amazing how much superior they can be when it comes to enjoying the experience.

[@jamesaki6945]

I'm smiling about your comment. May you enjoy great music for as long as possible!

[@catherinejones9396]

Helene Grimaud understands Brahms and clearly reveals every possible nuance of meaning in his works. This was a wonderful interpretation. Thank you.

[@mariaceciliamaringonidecar904]

Ich habe mir mehrere Interpretationen dieses Klavierkonzertes angehoert. Die von Helene Grimaud ist unuebertrefflich!!!! Einfach die beste. Ich danke ihr fuer dieses Geschenk!!!

[@H4RTZAG]

have you listened to zimerman's?

[@sungchia280]

when I had my thyroid cancer surgery, I asked my surgeon to play the 3rd movement during the operation, in case I die on the table, the last thing I hear would be this piece of music

[@JarmilaXymenaGorna]

I’m deeply deeply moved. Has anyone ever heard this magnificent monster of a piano concerto played without any flaws?! This one is pretty close. Thank you Helene for taking such care of every single note and phrase, and yet giving over the depth of emotions of this colossal piece. I was brought up on Arthur Rubinstein’s interpretations with the Łódź Philharmonic Orchestra, and Helene’s interpretation reminds me of Arthur’s, in its gravitas and finery all at the same time - Brahms is having a feast… 🤍

[@michaelunger3933]

I agree with it the same. I am moved to tears as well on the account of this magnificent and "bombastic" introduction of Brahms's sophisticated compositional style/manner of composition where all kinds of vibrations and emotional feelings in one arouse and on the same time are stirred up and are synchcronicially distributed evenly over/in the whole human body. I am feeling with the whole body and heart and soul this magical music. A gift of God !! And, the divine pianistress !!!

[@JarmilaXymenaGorna]

@@michaelunger3933 Thank you for this beautiful description

[@carlosdias5272]

Brahms certainly could never imagine such a beauty interpreting some of his inspired pieces. Helene is splendor at its utmost: performance, charisma, refinement, grace. Rejoice, Mr. Brahms!

[@DOC36121]

I have heard this piece dozens of times with dozens of fabulous artists, but I always come back to this one. Helene Grimaud is simply the best!

[@kendallsvengalis5390]

Helene Grimaud plays with such passion and sensitivity--a marvel to hear and behold. The orchestra does a superlative job in accompanimnt and the cello solo stands out as particularly memorable--bravo all!!!

[@anamercau2826]

Marvelous ❤!

[@nancyendsley2181]

This beautiful concerto never gets old, The performance was wonderful. Ms. Grimaud needs to be congratulated for all her years of preparation and hard work in becoming one of the world's finest pianists. The conductor also needs lots of praise for his excellent work.

[@richrol58]

Little ol' Rochester NY, where then black-haired and boyishly handsome CONDUCTOR David Zinman got his "start" in conducting--with the RPO, thanks you...

[@robertselby7801]

@@richrol58 good memories

[@robertselby7801]

@@richrol58 good memories

[@marcmitchel25]

I remember him from those days. He always "held his own".

[@classic4ever780]

J 'ai 67 ans. J 'aime la musique classique depuis mon adolescence. J ' aime Brahms ( mon compositeur préféré avec JS Bach ) depuis 50 ans. Le second concerto pour piano de Brahms , je l 'ai écouté des centaines de fois. Mon premier vinyle 33 tours de ce concerto était la version de Alexandre Uninsky avec l ' Orchestre de la Résidence de La Haye , dirigé par Willem Van Otterloo... puis j' ai eu Guillels et Reiner , Zimmermann , et tant d 'autres.... ( dont Julius Katchen !!!! ) J' ai écouté de jeunes pianistes chinoises se confrontant au monument brahmsien..., des " grands" pianistes échouant lamentablement ( je ne dirai pas le nom...). Maintenant je crois que je viens d 'entendre , je ne dirai la " meilleure version" mais la version qui me plait le plus et qui, quand je l 'écoute, me fait toucher du doigt l' insondable mystère de la communion des âmes. Ecouter une oeuvre entendue des centaines de fois , et vibrer comme la première fois ! merci Hélène.

[@seventeen_17526]

Probably it is my 50th time listening to this piece of music. Every time I listen to it I am so grateful. Thank you, again.

[@vitamc1213]

I have listened to this concerto like 5 times in the last few days, it is just so, so, so amazingly beautiful!

[@snarkeypoo]

I have listened to it every day for several years, sometimes several times a day, and often along with No. 1 as well.

[@jamescecil3563]

I know what you mean

[@MottiShneor]

If so, I highly recommend that you give a try to some other renditions of this marvelous concerto. There are many. At home I have at least 5 different performances... on Vinyl CD's and others. For example 2 great performances by Artur Rubinstein, with 30 years between the recordings - it is amazing to see how the perception changed. Also try Radu Lupu, Sviatoslav Richter.... I think you'll be enriched even more.

[@guyeliat-eliat6354]

exceptionnel ! Plein de grâce et de modestie ! Une artiste magnifique: précision et nuances. L'orchestre , son chef et ses instrumentistes sont d'une précision et d'une compétence extraordinaire. Ce fut une magnifique soirée ! Deo gratias ! Oui, merci au Seigneur de nous donner de tels artistes !MERCI à chacun d'eux !

[@許斐眞千子]

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[@許斐眞千子]

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[@許斐眞千子]

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[@isabellas.c.scanderbeg2670]

Outstanding! Helène Grimaud understands, feels and interprets Brahms like no other 💫

[@hoon_sol]

This is the best performance I've seen of this concerto at least. Seems like she's been giving the orchestra a pointer or two as well.

[@debsmith7861]

Pretty darn good, but Cliburn/Reiner is greatness unmatched, beating this rendition soundly. Taking nothing away from Grimaud; she understands Brahms well.

[@RaineriHakkarainen]

The Best Brahms concerto no 2 players are Really=Sviatoslav Richter with The Paris Orchestra from 1969 Richter the most monumental and Best structure for Brahms better than Cliburn or Grimaud! Edwin Fischer from 1942 Fischer the big Genius better than Grimaud! Grigory Sokolov with the Finnish Radio Symphony video from 1987 had the Best piano sound for Brahms better than Grimaud or Cliburn! Sokolov his rhythmic vitalness is unbeatable 4th mvt much better than Cliburn's 4th movement!!

[@SteveJOram]

One of Hélène's best performances I think.

[@Light71717]

This is arguably one of the most beautiful openings to a piano concerto, gave me chills and instant made me cry from how deeply touched I was by it! This is such a beautiful and soulful interpretation of this amazing concerto, thank you for sharing this with the world 🤍🤍🤍

[@alexreger4758]

It doesn't get much better. I've listened to this piano concerto by numerous artists for decades and this performance (and the studio version) are 2nd to none, especially when it comes to the 1st movement.

[@RaineriHakkarainen]

Not True! Grimaud is semi final player in big piano competition!! The Best Brahms concerto no 2 players are Really=Sviatoslav Richter with The Paris Orchestra from 1969 Richter the most monumental and Best structure for Brahms better than Grimaud! Edwin Fischer from 1942 Fischer the big Genius better than Grimaud! Grigory Sokolov his Brahms no 2 with Finnish Radio Symphony video from 1987 had the Best piano sound for Brahms much better than Grimaud's piano sound! Sokolov his rhythmic vitalness is unbeatable 4th mvt much better than than Grimaud's 4th mvt! Sokolov the most Titanic Brahms no 2!!

[@basilisvasileiou434]

Ελαχιστοι εχουν καταφερει να ανοιξουν το δευτερο μερος με αυτον τον αριστουργηματικο τροπο. Πολλα πολλα μπραβο στον μαεστρο στην ορχηστρα και φυσικα στην πολυ ταλαντουχα πιανιστρια.❤❤❤❤

[@lkrupp215]

The opening dialogue between the horn and the piano gets me every time.

[@Leofiora]

It's a great an inussual introduction.

[@carolynatkinson5832]

Oh me too!

[@jamescecil3563]

Me too.

[@MARTIN201199]

Just the the French horn was a little bit out of tune.

[@lkrupp215]

@@MARTIN201199 Imbecile moron, all this means is you don't give a damn about the performance, just looking for something to complain about.

[@danielfavre7741]

Helene,anew great performance of you in this concert.Congratulations.Your playing magnifies the work of J Brahms.

[@thebulbous]

The cellist's solo is breathtakingly beautiful, and somewhat sad, reflective.

[@alcidesvilhena2366]

Hélène Grimaud e Brahms, uma dupla de fenômenos! Hélène Grimaud é insuperável nesta interpretação! Simplesmente magnífica!

[@dem3325]

Great performance of a superb concerto by a virtuoso performer - all you need really. The cello solo was also impressive.

[@DStrick2008]

I know I’m late, but that’s one the best cello solos in all music literature

[@Warmsunset26]

Very gifted and clever lady. Modest and humble about it. 👍🏼👍🏼

[@TS-bb1pv]

＃ライブ会場映像の魅力、＃楽曲の演奏速度最高です。指揮とオーケストラの皆さんの演奏はニュアンスアーティキュレーションは元より、偉大なピアニスト奏者の演奏は音の強弱(深い音)音色が素晴らしいですね感動しました。❤️また複数のTVカメラ切り替えオペレーターの芸術的センスのスイッチャーのカメラ割り映像が素晴らしいですね感動しました。❤️ありがとうございました。😊

[@chandraraj9092]

Fantastic playing of the piano by Grimaud !

[@mariaceciliamaringonidecar904]

Meiner Ansicht nach die beste Interpretation des 2. Klavierkonzertes von Brahms, die es ueberhaupt gibt. Helene Grimaud ist einfach fabelhaft!!!

[@Desireyso58]

THE MOST BEAUTIFUL! HELENE GRIMAUD - BRAHMS!

[@reubenlahav6327]

Bravo and fantastic performance .I love it .Thank you The Gold Piano .

[@perotal]

My god, the beginning of the Andante is out of this world. I would have given everything to be able to compose that melody

[@polenc7167]

As a composer, I have to respond.First of all, listeners fail to recognize that it is the treatment of the melody that usually makes it memorable. Many melodies are little more that scales or simple arpeggios or their relatives. It is the harmonization and articulation that raises it to a new plain. You too could write extraordinarily beautiful melodies. But it take lots of work. It is not merely the gift of inspiration. Yes I agree it is a wonderful melody. And bless you a Brahms lover.

[@randywest1185]

The whole movement is sublime.

[@romaneravel9692]

Surtout écouter ! ne rien dire ! chutt ! vous êtes au Paradis Musical . Merci Hélène Grimaud ! Une ANGE par la délicatesse de son toucher piannistique ... Merci ! Hélène !

[@rintintinserie1155]

I had to close my eyes throughout half the concert, so intense! Agree, thoughtful Helene dressed in oriental silk, beautiful lady, too. Merci beaucoup, Helene

[@davidjared3402]

Thank you for pointing that out; that was a nice touch on her part, as to her clothing.

[@mariaceciliamaringonidecar904]

Helene: sempre sensível, brilhante, maravilhosa! Uma alegria imensa ouvi -la!!! Muito obrigada! (de São Paulo/ Brasil).

[@brit1066]

Why the hell is the world in such a mess when we have SO MANY examples of the heights to which human kind can ascend, with performances of such beauty and compassion like this. Why is it that the other side of our nature gets so much attention but these glorious achievements get so little.

[@hwt-ka-pth]

I didn't quite get what you meant in your first sentence. But in my perspective, that is due to the strive for competition in the apparent constant need of economic expansion feeding the capitalist. At least that is what the bulk of Earth's population is concerning themselves with, instead of embracing and preserving the actual beauties of life like these.

[@oucutie1]

Science-is-Truth What a question! A very good question btw. The only answer that makes any sense to me is remembering that there are opposing forces and those forces are very busy!

[@MaggieKrenek]

Well said.

[@24ANYHOW]

So, Shakespeare said world is unweeded garden. She opens the gate of the garden of bliss for me.

[@LazlosPlane]

You're very young.

[@jsguitargeek1432]

Every - Single - Note sings with meaning & beauty. Absolutely my favorite performance - by a large degree. Thank you for posting. BTW - the cellist (Andante) is spectacular

[@William1942-t2w]

Over and over I come here to see her passion, and, perhaps, to detect her pain. As much as she feels the genius of music, so also I believe, she feels a depth of emotion few can reach. How bright and how dark must her soul be. Perhaps it's within these extremes that the 'miracle' of which Mr Jacobin Girondiste writes. It's an accessible mystery, here, but the nature of all this will be a source of wonder for me for as long as I can listen.

[@IMAWriterRobJ]

She has such a way with BOTH concerti. Zinman and orchestra are in top form in loving accompaniment. Thanks for posting this wonderful performance.

[@aristotle358]

All credit to Brahms for such a great masterpiece for great pianists and orchestras to bring us such delight. This piano concerto is one of my favourites in the reperoir. I love it.

[@MARTIN201199]

Do you play it?

[@MuchachoCarracho]

The rendition is just amazing, just like when I first heard it 20+ years ago. I like this concerto played at a higher speed than most of the interpretations I’ve seen or heard in recent years. And this is just perfect.

[@FritzSolms]

Flawless and sensitive - and the most beautiful piano concerto.

[@markdemers3417]

A performance that combines power with gentleness. Stunning! Amazingly beautiful rendering of this magnificent piece.

[@jamescecil3563]

Power and gentleness: Brahms signature. Indeed.

[@kerawelt2008]

Absolutely breathtaking !

[@miguelgondi3843]

SHE IS A VERY FANTASTIC PIANIST..IN THE FIRST PIANO CONCERTO BY BRAHMS GRIMAUD IS OUT OF THIS WORLD...

[@sandplus5048]

Hélène was once considered France’s most beautiful lady. She models for L’Oreal, when you walked in Europe, you see her super gigantic size posters hanging from every where...even in Milan and Florence... Brahms is her favorite composer, I would strongly advise you to listen to her Brahms’ intermezzo, they are breathtaking. Her teacher is the famous Martha Argerich. We are friends, and she is so sweet and humble that one would never expect from such a famous artist.

[@wmwestbroek]

And she loves wolves.

[@makaan699]

True but I think her best Brahms recording is Beethoven Piano Concerto 5 :))

[@danamarshall6570]

I love to watch and hear her play. I feel that her connection to the music is so strong, like she is existing within it. The thing I noticed when I first became aware of her and saw her for the first time on you tube (I believe it was an article in The New Yorker) is how understated her clothing and hair choices are. It's as if she is trying to make herself almost invisible. In this performance the dark purple silk jacket is stunning but not overwhelming. Plain black pants, plain black shoes. It really lets the music shine. Based on your post about her modeling, it is just interesting that she downplays her beauty when she plays the piano.

[@luisdiazlopez3712]

She has a collection of great music about the water. You can find it here, at KZbin. It is a marvelous collection. Only music, not images . . . a real shame.

[@XPKpianist]

I doubt you really know her. Everyone knows her teacher was J.Rouvier (also once her lover) lol

[@norbertodelcp]

¡¡Uno de los mejores conciertos para piano y orquesta este N°2 de Johannes Brahms. Y la versión de Helen Grimaud magnífica junto con la dirección y el sonido de la orquesta!! ¡¡Bravo por Helene Grimaud!!

[@TS-bb1pv]

＃ライブ会場映像の魅力、＃楽曲の演奏速度最高です。指揮とオーケストラの皆さんの演奏はニュアンスアーティキュレーションは元より、偉大なピアニスト奏者の演奏は音の強弱(深い音)音色が素晴らしいですね感動しました。❤️また複数のTVカメラ切り替えオペレーターの芸術的センスのスイッチャーのカメラ割り映像が素晴らしいですね感動しました。❤️ありがとうございました。😊

[@CharlieTheGromit]

So powerful and mesmerizing. And yet, she perfectly controls every single note.

[@jsnphotodesign]

I am in love with both... Johannes Brahms - Piano Concerto No. 2 in B-flat major, Op. 83 and Hélène Grimaud... forever

[@michelhugonnot9718]

John, you are not alone, me too for ever

[@yoben2468]

@@michelhugonnot9718 moi aussi

[@sylviafarese9546]

Fantastic Helena Grimaud playing Brahms Thanks for sharing

[@michelbensadon3752]

C'est vraiment la "Belle Helene" de tous les points de vue. Excellente interpretation!

[@MrInterestingthings]

Superhuman effort this concerto is one of its elements . Grimaud has her own incomparable and heroic way in this mighty , mighty work .Sokolov is profound in this all who hear him will feel that he sees it and can make it sound as Brahms should !

[@ytubejat]

Lovely performance. This is certainly one of my favorite piano concertos and I like comparing different artist's interpretations - that is a great feature of KZbin!

[@mariaceciliamaringonidecar904]

Sinto-me uma pessoa privilegiada, pois posso ver e ouvir Helene Grimaud executar com toda a musicalidade que lhe é peculiar esse segundo concerto para piano de Brahms. Um verdadeiro deleite para mim. Muito obrigada, cara Helene! Saudações de Brasil, especialmente da cidade de São Paulo, onde esperamos poder recebe-la e aplaudi-la em breve!!!Obrigada

[@francinegaltier9128]

In english please Madame deCarvalho !!

[@marinacaracciolo3161]

Grande come sempre Hélène Grimaud, in specie quando suona il "suo" Brahms, senza dubbio un musicista che lei - come la sottoscritta - ama quant'altro mai!

[@MichaSchlechtriem]

The solo Cellist is first class.Kudos.

[@AlexPashkov]

I think he is "main hero" of this event, - and the orchestra as well, - they play way better than the pianist :)

[@wernerklotz8207]

Alex Pashkov why comparing the cellist with the pianist? All musicians in this orchestra are playing as one

[@liazorzoli2650]

@@AlexPashkov w c ypp

[@CrYou575]

@@wernerklotz8207 Envy.

[@barbaraglynn1531]

@@AlexPashkovYou seem to be in the minority in your assessment of Helene Grimaud’s performance. It is safe to say that she is considered by most who have knowledge and understanding of classical pianists to be one of the very best currently playing.

[@paulfreeman4900]

I'm always struck by the generosity of Brahms. He gives it big and deep and luscious.

[@jeffreytorres9560]

Helene Grimaud plays this B-flat major Brahms Concerto with such elegance, expression and grandeur...and mastery!

[@bettinabeckroge2808]

Fantastisch, wie eine Elfe verzaubert Hélène Grimaud die Töne und Gesamtkomposition. Sie lässt mit ihrer Interpretation am Flügel Bilder und Geschichten entstehen. Ich bin begeistert.

[@mariaceciliamaringonidecar904]

Vollkommen einverstanden!!!

[@zeuszeus00]

This is a stunning performance of an extremely difficult piano concerto ... Helene Grimaud is surely one of the best pianists in the world? ... and, she is gorgeous with beautiful hair and a very beautiful smile (see the end when she is taking the applause) ... I can't stop watching the end of the First Movement!

[@georgescancan7503]

+zeuszeus00 Beautiful??? DIE WELT Klassik inszenierung von Axel Brüggemann Das Haus des Buches in Dresden ist ein sehr aufgeräumter Laden. ... Hier erklärt die Belletristik - Buchhändlerin: "Ja, die Grimoud, die finden Sie in der Biologie, sie ist doch eine Wolfsforscherin." ... Die Odyssee im Dresdner Haus des Buches verrät viel über den Wandel der Klassik. Vorbei die Zeit, in der ein Musiker allein durch seine Interpretation des zweiten Satzes der Mondscheinsonate oder die exzentrische Analyse des "Wohltemperierten Klavieres" Erfolge feierte. Heute reicht es nicht einmal mehr, nur schön zu sein. ... Inzwischen müssen die Jung - Stars aber noch mit einer Abenteuergeschichte hinter ihrer Hochglanzfassade aufwarten, um Beachtung in der auf Fortissimo gestimmten Klassik - Nische zu finden. Krankheiten, Affären und Sex sells. Also wird vor dem Singen, Streichen und Klimpern freimütig über Eßstörungen und Männerphantasien geplappert. Und davon, dass Wölfe und ungezähmte Frauen den gleichen Ruf hätten und gegen beide die gleiche feindselige Gewalt ausgeübt würde. ...Daß der Klassik - Zirkus wunderbare Bücher hervorbringen kann, hat die Krimi - Autorin Thea Dorn vorgemacht. In ihrem Roman "Ringkampf" karikiert sie Diven, Rivalen und Opern - Fetischisten. Villeicht findet sich jemand, der die nackte Tatsachen als Autobiographie erzählt. Das ganz normale Leben: ungeoutete Schwule, verknallte Intendanten, weltweite Netzwerke, die unter Hotelbettdecken geflochten werden. Diese Geschichte würde das Haus des Buches sicher als Belletristik in die Regale räumen - weil die Klassik der beste Roman ist.

[@mariodisarli1022]

+Georges Cancan Affären! Schnuckelklassik! Berliner Zeitung 12.08.2006 von Wolfgang Fuhrmann "Ein neuer Typus hält Einzug ins Klassik - Gewerbe: junge Musiker mit verstärktem Niedlichkeitsfaktor" .... "Die Vermarktungsmethoden, mit denen die Klassikfirmen heute aus ihrer Talsohle herauszukommen versuchen, orientieren sich offener an den glänzenden Oberflächen des Mainstream-Popgeschäfts. Dabei geht es nicht so sehr um den Sex-Sells-Faktor, wie er etwa bei Anna Netrebko eingesetzt wird, wenn deren schwarze Mähne so wild ums Haupt fliegt, dass man förmlich den Praktikanten in den Kulissen mit dem Hochleistungsventilator hantieren sieht. Die neue Strategie der Plattenvermarktung setzt vielmehr auf das Prinzip Schnuckelklassik: eher Knuffigkeitsfaktor als Erotik (was ja auch immer etwas mit Distanz zu tun hat), eher Kylie Minogue und Britney Spears als Christina Aguileira oder Madonna. Noch ist Schnuckelklassik kein Begriff - Google kennt keine Einträge. Aber wir werden um das Wort nicht herumkommen, um diese Marketing-Strategie zu beschreiben. Stars müssen nicht nur so jung sein wie das ersehnte Zielpublikum, sie müssen auch so niedlich und knuddelig wirken, dass man sie am liebsten als Stofftiere mit ins Bett nehmen würde. Dafür dürfen sie auch ruhig Beethoven oder Bartók spielen - und tun es in den meisten Fällen nicht einmal schlecht. Der Glaube, klassische Musiker müssten sich mit Crossover-Projekten für die Pophörer profilieren, ist ein wenig geschwunden. Ruppiger Spätpunker-Charme wie bei Nigel Kennedy und allzu offensive asiatische Sinnlichkeit wie bei Vanessa Mae sind jedenfalls passé. Angestaubt wirken diese beiden Vertreter der 90er-Jahre vor allem auch durch ihre ständigen popmusikalischen Anbiederungen (Elektrogeige und dergleichen). Heute, da der Klassikleiter der Universal Music Group Deutschland, Christian Kellersmann, als Credo verkündet: "Klassik ist die neue Popmusik", hat sich die Beweislast eher umgekehrt, und so wird demnächst Sting ein Album mit Liedern des elisabethanischen Lautenisten John Dowland aufnehmen. Nicht zufällig bei der Deutschen Grammophon (DG), die zu Universal gehört. Und nicht zufällig kommen auch die meisten Schnuckelklassiker bei diesem altehrwürdigen Klassik-Label groß raus. Das ist auch historisch nicht unverständlich. Denn sollte je eine Geschichte der Schnuckelklassik geschrieben werden, würde der Geigerin Anne-Sophie Mutter, Karajan-Zögling und DG-Star, darin gewiss die Rolle der Ahnherrin zukommen - auch wenn sie dem pausbäckigen Wunderkinddasein längst ent- und in die schulterfreie Abendrobe hineingewachsen ist. So ist es nur folgerichtig, dass der Typus des Schnuckelklassikers derzeit in Reinkultur vor allem bei jungen Geigerinnen auftritt. Man denke nur an die Amerikanerin Hilary Hahn, deren immer ein wenig von Jungmädchen-Ernsthaftigkeit geprägtes Antlitz beim Betrachter unwillkürlich den Eindruck entstehen lässt, hier mache sich jemand ganz doll Gedanken über den Zustand der Welt. Im Gespräch kann sie zurückhaltend bis zum Nichtssagenden sein. Tatsächlich aber ist Hahn durchaus - und sehr amerikanisch - offen für allerlei volksnahen Unfug; auf ihrer Internet-Seite findet sich wunderbare "Fan Art"; Selbstgemaltes von Bewunderern (wir empfehlen das lustige Sonnenbild!), außerdem gibt es "Itty Bitty News" (zum Beispiel eine Todesanzeige ihres Meerschweinchens Psyche: "starb am 30. Juli 2004 mit zweieinhalb Jahren an einer rätselhaften Verdauungsstörung") und ein regelmäßig geführtes Reisetagebuch. Die Seite enthält auch Tipps, wie man alleine Zeit in einem Hotelzimmer verbringen kann: zum Beispiel mit "Lesen", "Auf dem Bett auf und ab springen", "Bügeln", "Fernsehen (Filme, ausländische Sendungen, Tierrettungsshows, Sport oder verrückte amerikanische Sendungen, wenn jemand Amerikaner ist und Heimweh hat)", "Alle Möbel umstellen (eine meiner Lieblingsbeschäftigungen)" und so weiter. Außerdem führt Hahn gerne mit Mitmusikern Interviews, wobei immer dieselben Fragen gestellt werden: "Ist Schokolade eine Droge?" - "Lieblingstiere?" - "Was halten Sie von Bach?" - "Schnittblumen?" und so fort. Dass man sie auf ihren Fotos kaum je lachen sieht, ist also erstaunlich; da sie diese Fotos aber selbst auswählt, vielleicht auch erklärbar. Sie sieht sich, wie so manche junge Dame, wohl nicht gern selbst beim Lachen zu. Ein richtiger Wonneproppen hingegen ist Hahns niederländische Kollegin Janine Jansen: Sie strahlt am liebsten von einem Ohr zum anderen. Jansen ist sich auch nicht zu fein, auf ihrer Homepage mit einer Fotogalerie von nicht weniger als fünfzehn Bildern zu prunken, während ihre lettische Konkurrentin Baiba Skride sich gerade mal sechs gestattet. Und wo Skride auf dem Cover zu ihrem Solo-Recital in Jeansanzug vor einem Bretterzaun street credibility einforderte, da sieht man Frau Jansen in abendgerechten Tüll- und Seidenträumen, aber auch im kleinen Schwarzen oder schlichten weißen Hosenanzug. Kurz: eine Frau fürs zarte Geigendiner, wo Skride eher den Typ zum Pferdeausreißen gibt. Die schnuckelklassischste aller Photogalerien aber hat die Berlinerin Caroline Fischer aufzuweisen. Auf ihrer Website präsentiert sich die "Pianistin aus Leidenschaft" auf neunzehn (Rekord!) Bildern in allen Lebenslagen: sinnlich schmollend, verschmust lächelnd, kühn viel nacktes Bein von sich spreizend. Man meint, plötzlich in die Bewerbungsmappe für eine Teenie-Modelagentur geraten zu sein, so ungehemmt trägt Fischer hier ihr Aussehen zu Markte. Und Klavier spielen kann sie auch noch! Die Herren spielen bei der Schnuckelklassik vorläufig noch die zweite Geige. Rolando Villazón, an dessen Charme nichts zu rütteln ist, hat große haarige Raupen statt Augenbrauen, und der junge griechische Geiger Leonidas Kavakos besteht überhaupt nur aus Behaarung. Das mag für Teddybären angehen - die Bedingungen der Schnuckelklassik erfüllt ein freundlicher Klavierknuddel mit lustiger Igelfrisur aber doch besser. Der Mann heißt Lang Lang und hat schon hartgesottene Politik-Redakteurinnen dieser Zeitung in Verzückung versetzt. Und ein ganz heißer Kandidat als erster Schnuckelklassik-Dirigent ist Gustavo Dudamel. Lockenköpfig, liebenswürdig, enthusiastisch wie ein Welpe, laut der Tageszeitung "El Universal" einer der schönsten Menschen Venezuelas - und ein wunderbarer Musiker, der demnächst, so ein Zufall, groß bei der DG rauskommen wird. Herzigkeit sells! Und Klassik ist die neue Schnuckelmusik. ------------------------------ Fotos (5) : Caroline Fischer So entspannt sich die "Pianistin aus Leidenschaft" (siehe www.carolinefischer. com), wenn sie gerade mal nicht in die Tasten greift. Anne-Sophie Mutter Überaus stürmisch geigte die Ahnfrau der Schnuckelklassik schon in jungen Jahren (....). Janine Jansen In französischen Fauteuils ist gut fläzen. Die Geigerin wählt dazu einen duftigen Tüll-und-Seiden-Traum (....). Lang Lang liegt flach im Sand: der chinesische Pianist bei einer Dehnübung. Gleich wird er wieder im Rachmaninow wüten (....). Hilary Hahn Wenn sie mal nicht ihre Geige in Schach halten muss, springt sie gern kontemplativ in Hotelbetten auf und ab (....). Ein neuer Typus hält Einzug ins Klassik-Gewerbe: junge Musiker mit verstärktem Niedlichkeitsfaktor: Schnuckelklassik!!!" Helene Grimaud gehört dazu!

[@ernshaw78]

+zeuszeus00 I'd seen her in Cleveland (when I was still in the US) play Beethoven's 5th Piano concerto. Her emotion is incredible. I cannot picture anyone else playing this, her Rachmaninov 2 is brilliant too.

[@brianhammer5107]

her looks should have absolutely nothing to do with what the performance is like - does anyone think Curzon was handsome?

[@zeuszeus00]

oh, how gloriously politically correct! ... let's agree not to censor each other, or there will be no conversation at all!

[@carlosbauza1139]

A strange relentless and fascinating bear of a concerto played wonderfully by Ms. Grimaud!

[@pasqualequartuccio9079]

La musica di Brahms è evocativa di mondi che si trovano nell' Iperuranio:mondi di Bellezza e altezza di spirito,di una dimensione assoluta , definitiva, esaltante dell'Essere che si proietta nell'infinito.

[@HelenaWilliams8696]

What power, fire, passion and beauty...Only H. Grimaud has that magical spark in her spirit and mind to convey Brahms sound beauty! Brahms' Piano Concerto no.2 is a well known complex and difficult composition.

[@sophiemora2178]

Très très beau concert. D 'une beauté d'âme extrême . Tous mes compliments à cette jeune pianiste. Merci, merci .

[@micha3756]

Wie rührend ergreift der asiatische Kontinent unsere europäische Kultur. - Danke! Das ist eine Hoffnung - -

[@walterschmidt3618]

Micha %c%

[@hermanandela]

Prachtvrouw en meesterlijk werkstuk van Brahms. Alles in balans, gevoel,brein. Brahms kwam net als ik uit eenRbeidersgezin. Drijvende boomkikker.

[@florencedumas5419]

Absolument génial!!!!Non seulement elle est belle mais c'est une fabuleuse pianiste!!je l'adore!!

[@JBrandeis1]

One wants to fall on one's knees and worship-but who first(?)-Brahms or Grimaud, but certainly both. Brahms has created something of such luxurious beauty but made it so impossibly difficult to play that it is a miracle that a human being could be found who can play it. This music is a message from the gods.

[@jasonsandon2224]

You complete idiot! The composer is always infinitely more important than the performer, "who first" you say?!! You musical buffoon. Your level of stupidity is embarrassing.

[@wolfmeyerfeld1768]

I think you're the complete idiot to use such outrageous language in response to a person adoring the composer as well as the pianist.

[@Hajnikovmuz]

You are a disgrace!

[@paulbarton397]

Grimaud first. Maybe she will notice in time to favor me with a smile. Brahms will not likely pay any attention.

[@sepandghanouni2271]

It's a message to Clara my friend. The recipient understood it.

[@micha3756]

Wie wunderbar greifen dieses Orchester und Hélene Grimaud ineinander!... Das ist überirdisch was ihr da gemacht habt! Wie einen Stier bei den Hörnern ergreift sie den Flügel - und er gehorcht ihr - Großartig

[@SonicPhonic]

Helene Grimaud is currently my favourite pianist, and for good reason! She's excellent!

[@כרמלהעידו]

ondoutedly mine too.

[@RaineriHakkarainen]

Helene Grimaud was The semifinalist Tchaikovsky Piano Competition in 1986! Uchida was More worse 10th place in The Queen Elizabeth piano competition in 1968!

[@SonicPhonic]

@@RaineriHakkarainen I was listening to Uchida playing the Mozart D Minor Concerto and really did not enjoy her interpretation of the 2nd Movement. The articulation in fast section was heavily "doctored".

[@jeroenvandenberg5750]

Mein absolut favirite Brahms Interpret

[@jeroenvandenberg5750]

I know what yiu mean

[@anandsamuel1978]

An outstanding concerto by an outstanding pianist!

[@eugenvonwurttemburg7600]

A truly difficult to play concerto , Helene tackles it with a vigorous passion ....her left hand execution is awesome ..and it is the left hand play what defines this concerto... Thanks Helene

[@hazelssister]

Brilliant Brahms brilliantly played

[@andrescavone]

Excelente interpretação. Peça densa e difícil para solista e orquestra, realizada de modo magistral!

[@nnarcissminator3193]

Just went to see her in Kimmel Center Philly. It was sublime and she played it effortlessly and expressively. I was about 6 feet from her piano, and I was lucky enough to hear the richness of sound that came from her magical weaving of the this piece using Steinway. Some audiences clapped after the first movement, sigh.

[@georgescancan7503]

+Li Kevin DIE WELT Klassik inszenierung von Axel Brüggemann Das Haus des Buches in Dresden ist ein sehr aufgeräumter Laden. ... Hier erklärt die Belletristik - Buchhändlerin: "Ja, die Grimoud, die finden Sie in der Biologie, sie ist doch eine Wolfsforscherin." ... Die Odyssee im Dresdner Haus des Buches verrät viel über den Wandel der Klassik. Vorbei die Zeit, in der ein Musiker allein durch seine Interpretation des zweiten Satzes der Mondscheinsonate oder die exzentrische Analyse des "Wohltemperierten Klavieres" Erfolge feierte. Heute reicht es nicht einmal mehr, nur schön zu sein. ... Inzwischen müssen die Jung - Stars aber noch mit einer Abenteuergeschichte hinter ihrer Hochglanzfassade aufwarten, um Beachtung in der auf Fortissimo gestimmten Klassik - Nische zu finden. Krankheiten, Affären und Sex sells. Also wird vor dem Singen, Streichen und Klimpern freimütig über Eßstörungen und Männerphantasien geplappert. Und davon, dass Wölfe und ungezähmte Frauen den gleichen Ruf hätten und gegen beide die gleiche feindselige Gewalt ausgeübt würde. ...Daß der Klassik - Zirkus wunderbare Bücher hervorbringen kann, hat die Krimi - Autorin Thea Dorn vorgemacht. In ihrem Roman "Ringkampf" karikiert sie Diven, Rivalen und Opern - Fetischisten. Villeicht findet sich jemand, der die nackte Tatsachen als Autobiographie erzählt. Das ganz normale Leben: ungeoutete Schwule, verknallte Intendanten, weltweite Netzwerke, die unter Hotelbettdecken geflochten werden. Diese Geschichte würde das Haus des Buches sicher als Belletristik in die Regale räumen - weil die Klassik der beste Roman ist.

[@nnarcissminator3193]

***** this piece

[@nnarcissminator3193]

aristotle358 where did you even conceive such an idea LOL. Did I even comment on her beauty? I was praising her performance. (I admit she has a certain grace that matches her piano skills if you insist on calling me an extrinsic guy :D)

[@aristotle358]

Li Kevin My comment was not aimed at you but at Georges Cancan. Now I have deleted it on the strength of thinking that you were he!

[@nnarcissminator3193]

aristotle358 LOL ok, I can't read German so I couldnt figure out who you were aiming for, now its all clear.

[@Thestephouse1]

Manny Ax performing this has always been my favourite until now. This is sublime

[@RaineriHakkarainen]

Not True! The Best Brahms concerto no 2 players are Really=Sviatoslav Richter with The Paris Orchestra from 1969 Richter the most monumental and Best structure for music better than Ax or Grimaud! Edwin Fischer from 1942 Fischer the big Genius better than Grimaud or Ax! Grigory Sokolov his Brahms no 2 with Finnish Radio Symphony video from 1987 had the Best piano sound for Brahms better than Ax or Grimaud! Sokolov his rhythmic vitalness is unbeatable 4th mvt much better than Ax or Grimaud! Sokolov the most Titanic Brahms no 2!!

[@visualdog]

Just saw her perform at Disney Hall - Divine! Standing ovation - played with such depth of feeling. She is surely the greatest living Brahms interpreter. Had great center seats with a perfect view of her finger work. Love the way she strides out onto the stage in a simple black slacks and top. It says, "I'm here to play bitches!" - she's not flouncing around. The only drawback - her beautiful face was hidden behind her hair.

[@boglarkaandras6565]

Igazi Brahms! Grandiózus,de mélyen lírai is, kiváló művész!

[@littleloiee]

This is just lovely and we are so fortunate to be able to see and hear her!

[@christianvennemann9008]

26:01 will always be my favorite part of this amazing piano concerto.

[@chislehurstbat]

Same here, exactly the same. Amazing!!

[@watutman]

It used to be my least favorite part but now favorite.

[@salvatoremartella5397]

@@watutman anche a mio parere. Sono d'accordo. È di una forza incredibile! Questo concerto è un miracolo! Lei è superba! Interpretazione eccezionale, veramente una gioia ascoltarla e ascoltare questo concerto!

[@jeroenvandenberg5750]

Absolut mit einverstanden

[@pauldoerflingerMarcoPolo1947]

Great very dear Hélène ! I love it very much this Piano Cobcerto N° 2 with You ! Great great for all the BEST TIME

[@philpollack]

Thank you so much for posting this great performance!

[@reubenlahav6327]

Bravo ,fantastic performance .Thank you The Gold Piano ,

[@richardcondon3797]

In this simple third movement you can hear where so much of the 20th century romanticism came from. Never up to the level attained but it was a star to shoot for. Simply a hymn in a love song.

[@rinacravero]

Viva Brahms! Bravo Hélène, fantástica! 🎹🎶 El cellista solista muy expresivo, ¡bravo¡ también. Se nota que este concierto les traspasa las fibras, a todos, director,🎻🎷🎺🎵📀 orquesta¡bravo! 🎼🎹🎶👏👏👏👏👏👏👏🏆

[@АндрейЕременко-о6ж]

В И В А Л Ь Д И

[@leona4701]

Brahms! Hélène is the best female pianist in the world. Her virtuosity is impressive. Strength and sensibility. Brahms would have been delighted.

[@MrGelusion]

what about Martha Argerich? Yuja Wang?

[@fredfeinberg3995]

MARTHA.

[@Thesimonemachado]

Grimaud is great, i love her, but Argerich is absolutely perfect.

[@Bulbophile]

absolutely awesome Maestro Grimaud -- always enjoy your gripping sensibility ---- thank you

[@Dylonely_9274]

She is really great, I love her talent.

[@richrol58]

People who claim to not like any *CLASSICAL MUSIC* can not have heard this incredible work...

[@АндрейЕременко-о6ж]

Они наверное не знают что утверждают просто JUST Про Это ГОВОРЯТ помойму? ,,О ВКУСАХ НЕ СПОРЯТ,,

[@InvestingForTomorrow24]

Simply fabulous. A tour de force

[@ronl7131]

Inimitable HG. Great collaboration here

[@jesuisamoureuxdetoi]

quel travail individuel et commun pour arriver a une telle perfection !!!!!!!

[@anselmobraga9799]

Quando passei; à ouvir Hélène Grimaud após já outors pianistas qual admirava; não consegui deixar de admira-la mais e pela sua perfeição dedicação e amor ao que faz executando o piano clássicas obras dos compositores que muito respeito; quero que tenhas muitos anos dentro dessa realidade que vive e nos faz mais viver com seu benigno fruto da Vida musical com Amor!..

[@carolingcello9304]

THE CELLO SOLO IS PLAYED AT MINUTE NUMBERS: 28::28 AND 36:20

[@lawrencechan9824]

Ppk

[@killmrdarcy4367]

This REALLY IS an extraordinarily great performance of the Brahms Klavierkoncert 2, while Grimaud is much better here further to the support of Zinman and the Japanese band than she is in her most recent recording of the work with Andris Nelsons. The focus and concentration by this orchestra on the score, and the tempos and markings by the conductor are quite riveting, while Grimaud's truly courageous playing testifies to her being one of the very greatest of piano artists performing in the world today. With much grateful thanks to 'The Gold Piano' for sharing this online, while thanks too, for Helene's almost equal to this live B1!

[@killmrdarcy4367]

@Frank Skoda-Simmons What, you've never heard of an orchestra referred to as a band before?

[@lucianoramos8671]

HG tem o dom de fazer parecer que cada peça executada é primeira audição mundial, algo nunca dantes visto, ouvido ou presenciado.

[@MottiShneor]

Well... not the best of recordings, not the best of orchestras, or even a conductor... but the music shines through anyway. And I LOVE this concerto so much... Thanks madam Grimaud you really honor this piece of music.

[@LazlosPlane]

One of the greatest, if not greatest, transitions from Development to Recapitulation.

[@shkyrbty]

Beautiful and powerful performance!!!!!

[@jpeyton88]

Saw her at the Théatre de Champs-Élysées playing Bach. She gave such an incredible performance, and afterwards came to talk and sign cds, books, and whatever else. She was beautiful beyond what the pictures or videos show and was so down to earth. Later heard Maurizio Pollini that week play the Well Tempered Clavier, Book One. This trip to France some ten years ago has given me a lifetime of memories.

[@mariaceciliamaringonidecar904]

Helene, você me emociona até as lágrimas! Obrigada por tão bela interpretação deste maravilhoso concerto de Brahms!!!

[@jamesgoldberg5401]

I love how emboldened people are with their comments about various artists and the works they perform. Jacobin, I also think that Grimaud's performance is quite wonderful.