Is Yunchan Lim’s Rachmaninoff 3rd Concerto the greatest ever? 임윤찬 (ft. Cliburn jurors)

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Watch the full performance here: • Yunchan Lim 임윤찬 - RACH...
0:00 Piano world’s reaction to Yunchan’s performance
2:52 Introducing a Rach 3 junkie, plus Cliburn jurors
3:52 Playing with a sense of the whole work
7:14 Highlighting structurally important notes
10:57 Influence of teacher Minsoo Sohn
12:20 Playing with shadow and light
13:54 Voicing and proportion in the cadenza
15:47 Independent voices and colorful chords
17:00 Layering and orchestral effects in the 2nd mvt
18:44 A page out of Horowitz’s playbook
21:14 A predator on the prowl
22:04 Rallying the orchestra into the 3rd mvt
24:14 Taking risks with tempo
25:59 Tickling Marin Alsop
26:28 Knowing when to pick up the pedal
27:05 Sincerity and restrained passion
27:44 Defying the orchestra’s tempo
28:24 Altering the score for monumental effect
29:41 A noble interpretation and a fat sound
30:49 Rach 3 belongs to Yunchan (for now)
Ben Laude is joined by Cliburn Competition jury members Anne-Marie McDermott and Jean-Efflam Bavouzet to break down Yunchan Lim's highly touted Rach 3 performance.
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[@CrunchyVideos]

Having played in the orchestra for this performance, I can say that all your observations were spot on. I'm especially pleased someone else noticed those three accented Ds in the third movement. The orchestra was absolutely exhausted by this point but his leadership invigorated everyone, and more importantly, the orchestra felt we could trust him. Many of us have played Rach 3 numerous times, including previously in the competition, and in most cases the orchestra played cautiously, letting the soloist do their thing somewhat detached from the orchestra. Not so with Yunchan. In the final statement of the second theme in the finale, the orchestra collectively breathed a sigh of relief as we knew we could play passionately, exuberantly and trust in Yunchan to lead us to the finish. Sadly, at least half of the delightful nuances in that performance were lost in the audio of the livestream. He was extremely sensitive to the orchestra, but never compromised his musical vision-- a perfectly balanced chamber musician. Every other musician I spoke to felt that we had just been part of history. Despite being exhausted after two weeks of endless piano concerto repertoire, there was an incredible energy in the air that I have never felt before in a performance. Several of my colleagues and I immediately listened back to the livestream upon returning home, just to relive that special moment. I'm glad Bavouzet used the word "nobility"; despite all the fireworks and rocket-fueled tempi, the orchestra knew that it wasn't about him, or about any of us-- it was a dedication to the music. Historic.

[@jesse5174]

A deep thank you to you and your colleagues who performed a great performance together despite being exhausted from the two-week journey. I think that your orchestra's performance brings out a deeper emotion and impresses us than Lim's other Rach 3 performances. There are criticisms that it is a bit slow in terms of speed, but I personally think this performance is the best in that it maximizes Lim's interpretation of Rach3.

[@asg77777]

Thank you. Very appreciated.

[@infinitenoonafan]

Thank you for sharing your experience with us! It really is a historic performance!

[@icesusie]

Thank you for sharing.

[@531mountain]

We all know that the talent and dedication of the orchestra is as great as Yunchan. Considering the specificity of the competition, a little imperfection comes to the audience as a greater impression on music and humans. Isn't this the charm, harmony, and beauty of the improvised art of music? bravo to everyone involved!!!

[@maritzacaceres3973]

Thank you for this incredibly passionate review of Yunchan's Rach. 3. He is indeed one of the most exceptional, talented pianist of this century. I had the privilege to get to know him on a more personal level during the Cliburn. When I told him that his voicing was incredible he said: I love counterpoint, I love Bach. He has a deep understanding of the inner voices, melodies, color, harmonic textures , clarity, tone painting, climax, in any of the pieces he played. He is interested and have taken harpsichord lessons so he can play Rameau, Couperin, Bach in the original instrument. I am glad you mention his teacher Minsoo Sohn because he admires him deeply. He said that Mr. Sohn keeps telling him to listen for the inner voices of a piece. When you get to that level of interpretation you can see the intimacy he has with the piano. Yunchan was so happy to be able to practice until way into the night because he can not do that in his small apartment in Korea. He can only play until 9 PM. He told my husband that he really wants to play Brahms piano concerto #2, to him that is an emotional challenge as he loves Brahms. So let us wait for more incredible piano playing and Brahms with Yunshan!

[@ellaw571]

Wow how can I thank you enough for this comment? Loved everything you shared! If you can remember any other pls don't hesitate to comment more! :)

[@whereangelsfeartotread]

Thank you so much for your precious chats with the artist. We need so much to quench our thirst to know where his uncanny musicality comes from.

[@Skyblue-qi3oo]

This is so precious!

[@user-yu5qj1fm2f]

😃🙏🏻💜thanks for your warm and kindly mind!!

[@eunyounglee201]

I look forward to hearing his Brahms 2 someday, as well as his Goldberg Variations, Couperin and Rameau on the harpsichord.

[@wikath449]

Unbelievably mature, refined and masterful, while at the same time; pulsating, electrifying and romantically embracing. A performance not only for musical history - but for: Eternity. In these 43 minutes of Rachmaninov 3 - this young man was touched by God.

[@charliegold3227]

Im very fastidious . And horowitz‘s piano style has really spoiled me for new pianists whom names are not Cziffra, Tatum or Argerich or even Rachmaninoff. But this guy was so fucking amazing. Incant believe it. His Liszt was energetic, his mozart was smooth and his Rachmaninoff was out of this universe. I’m am really excited about his future and a little bit jealous of his skills xD

[@dianeorehek4633]

Played some of his Liszt for a young pianist friend who was instantly spellbound: we sat in the car in the 107 degree Texas heat until the end. She burst through the door of her house, couldn't get to her piano fast enough...

[@branden3631]

Resonate with you with that "out of universe" compliment! Haha

[@bryancoryell8416]

I’m more than just a little jealous. He’s amazing!

[@dianeorehek4633]

You are ‘discerning’, rather than critical….a very rare character trait

[@musicmoreon]

for me, not a little bt

[@misunjung9057]

20세기에는 호로비츠에게, 21세기에는 임윤찬에게 라흐3은 헌정되었을 것입니다. 사자처럼 포효하는 호로비츠를 저는 좋아했었는데 그런 기대에 대한 반전이었고 혁신이었습니다. 임윤찬은 피아노 그 자체이며 듣지 못했던 다채로운 스토리텔링을, 서정성과 열정으로 절제된 심오한 독창적인 아름다움을 들려주고 상상케 했습니다. 임윤찬은 시인이자 마법사며 그는 그만의 타이밍과 음색으로 우리를 초월적인 신세계로 이끌고 미지에 대한 영감을 불어 넣어줍니다. 그리고 겸손하게도, 올곧이 음악에 대한 순순한 사랑으로 새롭게 라흐마니노프에 대한 경의를 표하도록 만듭니다. 이 모든 것이 경이롭고 기적같습니다. 브라보 임윤찬!!!

[@user-ww9hx6jv8k]

진정성 담긴 님의 감상평에 공감합니다 윤찬님 연주듣는걸로 행복한 날들입니다^^

[@misunjung9057]

@@user-ww9hx6jv8k 공감해 주셔서 감사합니다. 임윤찬은 연습 때의 30%도 안되어서 아쉽고 스스로 부족하다며 아직도 음악 앞에서는 모두가 학생이기 떄문에 더 배우고 싶은 마음이 오히려 더 크다고 했습니다. 또한 다른 인터뷰에서는 호로비츠의 소리는 누구도 흉내내지 못하니까 가장 좋아하고 존경하는 피아니스트 라고 임윤찬은 말했습니다.그 외 그가 존경하는 피아니스트들은 슈나벨, 리파티, 코르토 등 많고 매일 바뀐다고 했어요. 개인적인 감상평이 그에게 부담이나 불편을 주지 않기를 바라며 저는 호로비츠의 제왕적 카리스마가 깃든 라흐 3도 좋아하고 심금을 울리는 임윤찬의 초월적 라흐3도 좋아합니다. 새로 빠져 있어 행복한 날들입니다.

[@nicego7533]

영화샤인에서 데이비드 헬프갓 버전인 라흐마니노프3번이 최고였었는데 이번에 임윤찬 버전으로 바뀜

[@milchholstein884]

임윤찬은 피아노 연주 스킬 자체가 차원이 다르기 때문에 남들처럼 자신만의 연주색깔을 입힌다느니 감정을 표현한다느니 하는 얕은 수 없이 음악을 돋보이게 하는 연주가 가능한 것이라고 봅니다. 그냥 남들과 차원이 다른 연주실력 자체가 임윤찬의 개성이고 그만의 연주스타일이란 생각이 들 정도네요. 다른 영상에서 프로 연주자가 "처연하게 모든 것을 내려놓고 어떠한 욕심도 부리지 않는다" "감정을 내세우지 않고 음악을 돋보이게 한다"라는 평을 괜히 한게 아니라고 생각됩니다. 하지만 그런 연주가 다른 누구의 연주와도 비교가 안되는 독보적인 연주가 되는게 진짜 임윤찬의 실력이라고 보이네요.

[@user-rg1ce6jg5l]

👍 공감100

[@starlight9192]

What strikes me the most in Yunchan’s performance is that he assigned a role and character for each note to make a big drama combined. So listeners can clearly sense the storyline, the highs and lows, and the entire picture. It feels like watching a movie rather than listening to a piece of music. You can sense a variety of feelings coming at you while listening to this one piece of music. He knows exactly what a music performer’s role is and successfully embodies it himself. I’ve watched quite a lot of Rach 3 performances but there was nothing like Yunchan’s that made me tear up at last!

[@heran6899]

Yes, i agree with you. I felt like listening to the composer's inner voice of his own storytelling from Yunchan's performance.

[@yesunny12]

So true. I completely agree with you.

[@NoNo-sd4hi]

Couldn’t agree more

[@jae.j235]

exactly what I felt. it was like a movie.

[@sydneyk3979]

Well said!!! I totally agree with you!!!

[@honeyfarmer0]

A year later... I am still listening to this performance....says all.

[@josephinehung4348]

Same here! Revisiting Ben"s review from time to time as well! Salute to Yunchan and Ben!

[@lucipheriousdeilluminati3784]

Why? The orchestra was awful. It sucked the energy from the performance! I don't get what y'all is hearing! It's awful! Even as a sound engineer I can forgive the recording...but....this performance is atrocious!

[@enriquesanchez2001]

For some reason, unbeknownst to me, I FELT the MAGIC of this performance from the very FIRST note. Every nuance mentioned here was in tune with MY impressions. Honestly, it felt as if I was hearing the RACH 3, for the very first time. To say it was life-changing for me, would be a monumental understatement. YUNCHAN LIM absolutely sealed a place into my heart, mind and soul with this performance. ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

[@mikrocosmos7651]

True everytime I listen to this performance I'm totally blown away once again, discovering anotuer beautiful notes and intentions

[@enochjung]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y57InGCll9SqY6s This performance was done by Yoon Chan in Korea six months before the Van Cliburn competition, and it is more dynamic and faster. And the encore performance is much impressive.

[@mikrocosmos7651]

Can't agree with you more. He possesses - or is possessed by - things most pianists, not only teenagers, lack. He didn't want to win or outdo others, he just burned with the pure passion to be the music

[@Dh-uj8pr]

@@aug28th8 I think this comment is based on Yunchan's interviews after the competetion. He clearly and repeatedly said in many interviews that he just applied to find out how much he has grown up before he reach his adulthood, and never ever wanted to win. He even said he is deeply confused and distressed to win the gold medal for he is not better than the other great pianists. He said what he wanted was just to express the composer's intention, the original music itself.

[@mikrocosmos7651]

@@Dh-uj8pr you said what's in my mind!

[@tonebasePiano]

The humility in his personality shines through in his music making.

[@Franz_Liszt_Korean]

Agree

[@michelleorne]

@@Dh-uj8pr He might not have intended to win, but in that final round, his maturity and ability to command that orchestra far exceeded the others and propelled him to the Gold. From the prelims it was obvious he would make the Finals but until the Finals the Gold Medal was not guaranteed...

[@tashas2654]

I'm sure that the interpretation of Rach3 will be devided before and after Lim's performance.

[@cynic150]

What? How can it change before Lim's...?

[@tashas2654]

@@cynic150 oh. I had a mistake.

[@andhaiden]

I was there, and part of what made this so incredible in person was the contrast we had just heard. The first competitor also played Rach 3 and it was mediocre, then we got a bit of a palate cleanse by the second competitor, and I was almost wondering if I should leave since I just heard Rach 3, but I decided to stay, which was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. You’re not lying about the orchestras enjoyment. I ran into one of them in the parking garage stairs, and he said they were stunned

[@andhaiden]

Also I was in a nearby coffee shop the next day, and a number of Cliburn organizers including the conductor showed up and you could tell there was an electricity among them.

[@mikrocosmos7651]

Omg I'd pay thousands to be there , lucky you were

[@andhaiden]

@@mikrocosmos7651 I just did it on a whim at the last minute since I live so close. I'm really thankful to God for that whim!

[@Sunny_Day125]

🥰 Thank you so much for sharing the story!!! I would like to hear you even more🤣🤣🤣

[@user-cx1ms7nf1q]

오!! 그날의 기억을, 감상을 나눠 주셔서 감사합니다^^ 부럽습니다. 진심으로^^

[@jhyounyo]

Anton Nel, one of the jurors of the VC Competition this year and Professor of Piano and Chamber music at the University of Texas at Austin, left the following message on his SNS : "It has been such a thrill to watch him go from strength to strength during the competition, playing such diverse and demanding music with seeming ease and insight for someone WAY beyond his years. Instead I was celebrating the extremely rare talent of a person with a blend of stunning technical facility and musical insight I didn't think could be possible at the age of 18. I feel privileged to have heard this, and of course delighted that Yunchan ended up with the gold medal. I'm awed and humbled by this person and his talent -- BRAVO."

[@dionysus4778]

😂👏

[@hyunwhite6935]

Thank you for sharing this wonderful message!

[@eddydelrio1303]

That is high praise indeed coming from Anton (who can essentially play every concerto ever written, and at least one that didn't ever get published)!

[@BjornHegstad]

As a conductor, listening to Yunchan Lim's performance, I couldn't help but think that the young master had studied the score just as well as maestro Olsop. There are some rhythmically complex exchanges between orchestra and pianist where it is very easy to fall out of sync, and we had heard the orchestra struggling to stay together with other soloists this year. But Yunchan's playing was so clear and gave the orchestra such strong direction, that the orchestra joined him even in the most troubling exchanges, even those places where Yunchan blazed ahead in a ferocious tempo. I will even go so far as to say that it sounded like a completely different orchestra than the one we heard previously the same evening. Even the orchestral parts without soloist sounded more exciting than before. And I think we can attribute this elevated orchestra to Yunchan's exceptionally convincing, consistent and charismatic playing, as Ben Laude thoroughly examined in this video.

[@vankirby1762]

Thank you so much for your comment as a conductor yourself!!

[@sungmanshin]

Thank you so much for this priceless comments

[@stefanbernhard2710]

Interesting observations. I was wondering how they were perfectly timed. Lim was almost a secondary conductor in his own right.

[@user-cx1ms7nf1q]

지휘자님 입장에서 객관적으로 관찰하신 내용을 알려주시니 더욱 마음에 와닿습니다! 소중한 댓글 감사히 읽었습니다^^ 👍🏻🙏

[@mikrocosmos7651]

What an amazing insight! Thank you so much for sharing this

[@bbergarch1]

After posting these comments a couple of days ago, I realized I forgot a couple of additional observations. One is that he plays not only with a great sense of confidence, but with the sense of authority in both the Rachmaninoff and Liszt that I have experienced with Serkin / Beethoven, Rubenstein / Chopin, and De Larrocha / Albeniz. The other quality I have been thinking about through countless listenings, is that he brings a sense of intimacy to this grand work, almost as though it is a piece of chamber music, a quartet for piano, strings, woodwinds and brass. There is intention and clarity behind every note and phrase, achieved through remarkable efficiency of means. I am a 76 year old architect (still working) and a life-long piano junkie. My first concert at 16 was hearing Rudolf Serkin in Chicago. When I had the opportunity to meet him a year later, my knees were quivering. Having lived in New York (Carnegie Hall) and Boston (Symphony Hall), I heard many of the great pianists of the 20th century. Serkin, countless times, Horowitz 3 times, Rubenstein several times, Pollini, Kissin, Brendel, and many others, sometimes scoring stage seats. I once attended a Debussy masterclass (as an observer!) given by Richard Goode. One comment that remained in my memory was that even in fog, there are details. I have never been drawn to Liszt or Rachmaninoff as being too bombastic with empty virtuosity. But in Lim's performances, he was able to clear the fog of SO MANY NOTES with clear direction and intention with a keen observation of detail. Like many others, I have listened to his competition performances over and over. As well, I have also listened to his earlier performances starting with the ABEGG Variations (age 9), the Mephisto Waltz (age 13) and glorious Bach. I am constantly searching for his performance schedule and look forward to many years of watching his astonishing trajectory. I will also add that the analysis was so coherent and detailed, masterfully edited, I join the many commenters who hope for a similar treatment of the Transcendental Etudes. And having heard Ben Laude's performances and master class appearances, I will say the selfless treatment of Lim shows a welcome generosity of spirit. And given the seriousness of the subject, the interjections of humor were most welcome. The slo-mo of LIm's hair is all that needed to be said about a component of his stage presence that is almost as powerful as his unlocking the mysteries of incredibly dense scores. Thank you and your guests so much for your thoughtful presentation.

[@rond3435]

wow... I 'm so lucky to find a gem - your comments from all these replies.

[@branden3631]

@@rond3435 same omg what a gem

[@user-gb9vu4il9g]

저 역시 당신과 같은 이유로 공허한 기교로 과시적인 느낌 때문에 깊은 감동을 받은 적이 없습니다. 특히 리스트의 경우 그랬던 것 같습니다. 클래식을 좋아하지만 연주자의 영혼이 아름답게 느껴지고 음악과 일체가 되는 신비로운 경험은 처음입니다.

[@hosunkim4864]

I respect u!

[@mikrocosmos7651]

" There is intention and clarity behind every note and phrase, achieved through remarkable efficiency of means." You said it!!!

[@vladibaby79]

I am a pianist myself and a very critical listener and I have to say that I had tears in my eyes only 3 times in my whole life while hearing a concert. Yunchan Lim's performance was one of them. His piano playing has no age, it is bigger than life. I wish him to be lucky and healty in his life and can inspire the world for a long time.

[@Dh-uj8pr]

What a great comment..!

[@happilyeverafter9988]

🙌🙌🙌

[@kcho777]

Yes, lucky and healthy to achieve his own personal musical goal!! Be a great happy pianist of all time! 💜🎹💟

[@saranghaeclinic4904]

ㅣam also with you.

[@yjbk21]

우와~

[@pascalcocquyt4564]

After several times watching i must agree that this performance is absolutely epic .this rachmaninoff 3 performance is like no other one. I witnissed alsop în 2016 at the queen Elizabeth competition. She conducted also rach 3 played by Lucas vondracek. He was amazing. But yunchan lim is something else.He takes my breath away. Absolutely amazing. I think he îs The GOAT. absolutely.

[@user-oz7ny6fi1q]

I very very very think so!

[@enochjung]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y57InGCll9SqY6s This performance was done by Yoon Chan in Korea six months before the Van Cliburn competition, and it is more dynamic and faster. And the encore performance is much impressive.

[@ritakinkaradulovic2868]

Definitely he is the GOAT of this concerto

[@henryhecking4026]

Hardly…

[@nimblefingers36maine93]

Hey Ben. 87-year-old here, who was on DC university piano faculty. For 31 years and was ushering in my youth at Constitution Hall long before there was a Kennedy Center. I heard them all, and so many friends had spoken of Yunchan’’s performance. I was hesitant to watch, knowing the hyperbole that exists in our field, and I even watched the first two minutes of your tone base and yawned “oh my. Yet another“. I finally became convinced that I should watch, and this is what I wrote to so many colleagues, including my former students are in, including one piano chair of big Michigan University. So thank you for this which I finally finished and find such truth it. “pinnacle of musical experience for me ever”

[@jeffreycarlisle4850]

P

[@user-cz1we5xd7b]

❤

[@ct3293]

Ben, I would like to thank you for this video. It not only helped me fall in love with classical music again but to discover such a humble , special young pianist whose artistry inspires me to want to go back to playing again. Your analysis, your guests/jurors’ insights (from the Cliburn), even your humor all fall into place perfectly. (I also found couple of videos on Liszt Transcendental Etudes …thank you for making them available. Wondering if there are others. Appreciate all the hard work that went into them). I haven’t had a chance yet to see Yunchan play live but hoping to see him next year at Carnegie Hall. Thank you.

[@Taosravenfan]

I was raised listening to Horowitz in the 60s-70s. I’ve never heard anything like this performance by this young man. It was transcendental.

[@gingergatling7297]

"Now Rach 3 belongs to Yunchan" - that is so true! This performance brought me to tears and I was standing and applauding at the end! Thank you for this insightful commentary - and definitely, this is the Rach 3 GOAT!

[@ludalee6505]

Plz explain to me what does GOAT mean ?

[@professionalamateur417]

@@ludalee6505 It stands for greatest of all times. Which I completely agree.

[@ludalee6505]

@@professionalamateur417 oh, thanks millions 😊

[@user-dk9ew0cn2z]

@@ludalee6505 The word "GOAT" stands for The Greatest Of All Time🐐

[@LC-ig2jm]

I’m so in love with this performance that I’ve listening to it at least 100 times. It makes me emotional. I never knew this concerto is this magnificent until I heard Lim. Such an incredible talent!!!

[@stantucker1061]

I was in the audience for this “once in a lifetime” performance, and since then have listened to it over and over again. Your wonderful analysis clarifies why I will undoubtedly continue to listen to it long into the future. Such magnificent beauty!

[@ellaw571]

You were so lucky!! May I ask when did you notice this would be the gold medal performance?

[@carol9202]

부럽네요 그 공간에 계셨다는게요 저는 영상으로 계속 보고 있고 볼 때마다 힐링하고 있습니다^^

[@tonyventura4605]

I hope you kept your stub, lol…

[@beethovensg]

Did he break your legs? Or did you hold on tight enough? Those stadium seat don't have straps.

[@stantucker1061]

Didn’t 😩

[@cirrusclouds8296]

(from the recent interview with Lim in International Piano Magazine) Amid all the clamour, the only person who seems to think there was nothing special about it is Lim himself, ' I don't think my Rachmaninov is outstanding', he says, 'but I'm glad many people like it. All I can think of is that my sincerity is connected.' 'Rather than being confident, I just wanted to play my music sincerely. Flowers bloom if you express your sincerity even in nervous and desolate moments.' 'It is all to do with a true heart,' he says, 'If I'm thinking about how to live in a world where I don't know when I'm going to die, I'm playing with all my heart and soul.'

[@animalsarebeautifulpeople3094]

This young boy is truly killing me softly.... 😭😭😭😭

[@eggizgud]

Somehow, he reminds me a lot of Yuzuru Hanyu. Same insane talent that captured the world when they were still in their teens, same single-minded dedication to their art and bring out the best in it.

[@Ncp2666]

What a pure and profound musical experience! Really enjoyed the commentary too. Gushing right along with you.

[@bon7k731]

I saw quite a lot of pianists playing Rach 3. Nobody made me cry except yunchan lim. I felt that he seemed to throw himself into the music and burn him.

[@chester6343]

He's amazing, his transcendental etudes were the best I've ever seen too, and he's only 18, I don't know how that's possible.

[@zelimircabraja7529]

G. O. A. T. Period!!

[@MIRZIGA]

What I'm curious about is that I want to see his music as well as listen to it. I have no choice but to keep clicking on KZbin.

[@tiffsaver]

I am a rock musician who loves listening to classical music. I can't read a note of music, I am totally uneducated and play completely by ear. That's why I particularly appreciated your marvelous "blow by blow" critique through this entire journey. I was both entralled, entertained, educated, and moved to tears with this teen's playing, and can hardly believe I'm even using that description given the absolute maturity of his musicality. With a performer this young, it's difficult to even imagine what he'll be able acheive as he matures in intellect and experience. I am blown away.

[@kazkim9152]

When I first heard his Rach 3 performance, it almost sounded like a different piece. If Rachmaninoff could react, he'd think, 'It's better than how I thought this concerto could be played.'

[@e.k.8835]

I attended Yunchan’s NYP debut last week… it blew everyone out of their minds.. I was laughing when it ended because I couldn’t believe what I had just seen and heard.. The cadenza he played was a mix of the original and ossia, which now people started to call “Lim’s version” 😂

[@pea1399]

Lim's version. Really!!!

[@ddestiny44]

Awesome!!!❤❤

[@djbiviano]

GOAT? I'm no piano expert, but I have never wept at the finale of a concerto - he moved me to tears. Every performance throughout the competition was so moving, transfixing. The Beethoven Bagatelles, the Faux Follet, the Scriabin, Chopin, and of course, his beloved Mozart - this young man channels, his spirit expressing the soul of the composer. Bravo!!! (Shouting!)

[@ddestiny44]

I’m shouting with you!!!

[@johndaker9489]

This video by Ben Laude is truly incredible. I watched Yunchan's performance live and can honestly say I was changed as a human. He's the greatest pianist I've ever seen, period. And not just because of technique, speed or power. I was changed because of his humanity, his ability to transcend the instrument, the music, and connect to something much higher, it almost stopped my heart from beating. I saw God in his playing. Horowitz, Sokolov, et al., you can love them, marvel at them etc,, but you don't see God there. Yunchan has something you just don't see often. The only other time I've seen this is with the Russian flutist, Denis Bouriakov. Bouriakov is not only the greatest living flutist, but he is the greatest flutist to ever live, and his sound can bring a grown man down to his knees trembling in tears, he is the GOAT of the flute. As I watched the Cliburn, I predicted that Yunchan was going to win the Grand Prize from early on, there was no comparison, it was not even close. People will say, 'Well, he's young, let's wait and see….' That only applies to normal musicians. Yunchan is no normal musician. Like Bouriakov, they are one in two hundred years to come along. He is the future of the piano. Lim is the GOAT, this R3 performance is the GOAT of all of them. Yunchan Lim is God's gift to us. P.S. Everybody needs to go back and listen to his Transcendental Etudes, it was shocking.

[@user-cx1ms7nf1q]

와!! 감동입니다! ㅠㅠ 🙏🙏🙏

[@Dh-uj8pr]

Spot on! Chills...

[@vankirby1762]

Well said, couldn't agree more with you.

[@faustinalee26]

Thank you !!!!!! You said what I wanted to, but couldn't express. !!!

[@yesunny12]

Wow. From a true lover of classical music.

[@SCRIABINIST]

And he's only 18, can't wait to see what comes next

[@Evony_Insider]

Also a pianist here and all too familiar with this concerto in every note AND YET in his performance I heard melodic material in the left hand I didn't know existed, meaning I never heard them in their own context before to stand out in such a well and balanced manner. And for this and so many other reasons YES, for me this IS THE GOAT for Rach 3.

[@vladmirhoopnagle1170]

I too am from Texas and have had a particular interest in the 3rd ever since seeing the movie Shine. Up to that point I was unfamiliar with the piece, but seeing how much emphasis was placed on its difficulty piqued my interest. The first version I bought was the famous Martha Argerich one. I thought, at the time, that this was supposed to be the definitive version. Of course, she plays the "small" cadenza and I always thought it sounded a bit rushed. Like she was trying to get through it as fast as she could, without really putting much feeling into it. Practically every subsequent version I heard was the "large"? cadenza. I didn't quite know what to make of it, and wanted to know what was going on. So, I bought the piano score and saw that there are actually two versions. After hearing Lim play it with more passion, I have to say I really prefer the "small" one. At any rate, it is beyond my comprehension how anyone so young can master this work to the degree that it is now seriously considered the definitive version. But, I watched him play it live also, and knew without a doubt, that he was the gold medal winner. His playing was transcendent.

[@bozartspianoarchive3546]

its kinda crazy how, already just winning a performance is great enough, but actually starting a whole ass DEBATE on whether your performance was the best of its kind really shows how good yuncham really is. Normally competition winners would be forgotten as their performances are great, but aren't nearly as good as the piano masters such as Horowitz. However yuncham actually made a debate on whether his race 3 performance was the greatest of all time, which is crazy since he is only 18, and most 18 year olds can only DREAM of winning the cliburn, not to mention starting a debate on whether your performence is the best

[@Dh-uj8pr]

Agreed! (and it's yun chan )

[@bozartspianoarchive3546]

@@Dh-uj8pr oop sorry

[@deachelga-melinda887]

I agree with you! he is incredible

[@robme9845]

I just heard his performance of Rach. 3 with Boston Symphony a few days ago and I was struck by his utter mastery of the long line with no haphazard affectation by measure or phrase. Near the end of the performance I found myself getting up from my chair and walking about my home beating time with my arm and at the end I had the sensation of the whole piece residing inside my soul at once.

[@selvator5678]

In the pre-World War I years of Europe, amidst the social and political upheavals of the time, Crimean-Russian composer Sergei Rachmaninoff's genius did not initially receive the full recognition it deserved in New York, even up until the war's end in 1919. I believe it took pianist Yunchan Lim to truly convey the message Rachmaninoff embedded within his music - a message to humanity that transcended years. For too long, brilliant pianists focused on the Rach 3's technical virtuosity, overlooking its soul and deeper meaning. Yunchan, however, provided the key to unlocking the world of inner turmoil Rachmaninoff experienced during his composition. He masterfully revealed how beauty the life and world can be and how easily consumed by the darkness of human ambitions that pave the way conflict and devastation. Yunchan's fingertips brought to life the composer's longing and profound remembrance of his homeland, the war frenzy that gripped the people, and the ultimate societal devastation. With his performance, Rachmaninoff's emotions became tangible, visible, and palpable. It was a privilege and a joy to witness a young genius and his masterful interpretation of a legendary compposition by another genius. From the depths of our hearts, we extend our gratitude: first to Yunchan Lim (- May Allah always protect him from the evil eye 🧿--) and his family, then to the Korean Society and the State that nurture such talent, a timeless legend for the world stage, and finally to the Cliburn Competition for inspiring and motivating young talents to enrich human civilization. We eagerly await and hope that we will find the opportunity to witness Yunchan Lim's artistry Türkiye in our lifetime. 🎶

[@maumusa123]

I think you are the greatest music critic in the universe.

[@slambennett]

Yunchan did something incredible here -- what we witnessed was the birth of the super-pianist Russell Sherman talked about in his book "Piano Pieces." And I know personally, as I've played this concerto almost 30 times since I was a young teenager (including a clip here on youtube). I told Elizabeth Roe, commentator of the Cliburn, it was as if Argerich and Horowitz had a baby and were tiger parents who left Yunchan in a room only with this concerto and the collective recordings of it. But Yunchan was selective in what influenced him, and I counted at least 10 times he did something completely original I'd never heard before in this piece and these deviations increased in pace as the arc of the concerto reached the climax. Classical music needs this innovation and authenticity. I can only hope that Yunchan will keep innovating in all his interpretations and I would love to see him arrange too. It seems he has it all in him, the old soul, the fire, the storytelling, technique to burn. I could not contain myself after his performance.

[@alee2578]

Great points! Totally agree!

[@Chopin-Etudes-Cosplay]

Your Argerich Horowitz baby analogy is hilarious. BTW it's known that Yunchan read Russell Sherman's book (he's stated so in an interview years ago). Makes sense too, since Russell Sherman is his teacher's teacher.

[@dionysus4778]

@@Chopin-Etudes-Cosplay True that. Lim's teacher Son Minsoo was taught by the legendary Russell Sherman. Fun fact is that the day before Lim was to play Liszt TE at the VC Competition, he told his teacher Son that he wants to dedicate the performance to Mr. Sherman. I read somewhere Sherman is fond of Lim like a grandson. He surely was amazed at Lim after the young virtuoso had finished! Another fun fact is after the winning of VC and with Lim's soaring popularity in Korea, "Piano Pieces " by Sherman has become a fast-bestselling book when it increased 10 times more than its regular sales.

[@dionysus4778]

Totally agree with you that he seems to have all.. and a lot more. He obviously can conduct too, when it's apparent to watch him subliminally doing that with the orchestra, working as a one team. I can def picture him conducting the orchestra while playing the piano for a concerto near future.

[@alee2578]

Isn’t it Piano Pieces?

[@johnjennmcdaniel1129]

Before your video came out, I was already comparing Yunchan’s performance with Horowitz, Yuja Wang, and several others and kept coming back to Yunchan in awe of such spectacular articulation, line, and things that no other pianist including Horowitz had done. This performance has changed me to be more in love with Rach 3, and it now truly belongs to Yunchan for many years to come. Thank you for validating what I have been sensing for these past weeks!

[@Dh-uj8pr]

Agree!

[@BTCP-ks8rk]

agree.

[@789armstrong]

Have you heard Stephan Hough?

[@zamfully]

Lala land all technique with no soul

[@johnjennmcdaniel1129]

@@789armstrong Have not heard him. Will check his work out. Thanks.

[@lindashapanka6229]

Retired violin teacher here who has had the joy of playing in orchestras accompanying pianists, I unabashedly admit I have a hard time following Rachmaninov. I stumbled upon this Cliburn. Listened to a bunch. Then this came on. I finally heard all the voices! All the notes. I cried. So amazing. Thank you for explaining how Yichang achieved this. I shall now listen to Horowitz and do a little comparison. I am just so delighted that there is Yunchan Lim in the world.

[@blhang]

👍👍 sorry but not Yichang->Yunchan

[@Dh-uj8pr]

Same I heard so many notes that I never knew there.. and they are all so shining and sparkling, what a beautiful concerto I have rediscovered.

[@kcho777]

@@blhang Yes, but he corrected it at the end. ❤️

[@josephinejung6353]

Still listening in 2024..

[@cribedadabecri5764]

I bet it wont be the only GOAT performance of his life. To me he is the Michelangelo of the piano, and he can become the Beethoven of pianists in a few years.

[@kable321]

Michelangelo

[@Miles_Link]

와 단어와 표현력이 몹시 멋지고 아름답네요. 🙂👍👏👏👏👏

[@randypagel1711]

Great analysis! Yes, Yunchan has the moxie to play the way he wants to play and all who listen are the beneficiaries of having a life-changing experience enter our hearts and souls! I also laughed out loud several times during the performance thinking, "He seriously didn't just do that, did he?...only Horowitz takes those chances!" And Horowitz was often criticized by the snobs but the rest of us understand that Horowitz's playing benefits your soul. In addition, Yuchan's interaction and rapport with the orchestra are heartwarming and yet amusing. Again, I had to laugh out loud when he looks at the orchestra as if to say, "Your turn--then fasten your seatbelts because I'm about to go again!" Then he gets back to playing like it's no big deal. Yuchan's musical and physical passion at the piano is so much fun to watch! Another book could be written about the exceptional musical and technical effect of each measure of this entire concerto Yuchan plays. You do a great job of touching on many of the highlights! Indeed, Yunchan is a once-in-a-generation pianist, and he's only 18?!?!

[@Miles_Link]

It's been over 3 weeks and I still get lost every time I see this performance and I fall into a deep sea of ​​emotions. He became the event horizon of a black hole called 'Rachmaninoff Piano Concerto No. 3'. After passing through Yunchan Lim, there is no way to get out of that black hole again.😱

[@ryanfrederick3376]

The moment when he turns to the orchestra - that look! I just can't decide if it's "Here we go, bring it on.," "Are you with me? Cause this is about to get very, very real," or (one of my favorite movie quotes ever) "Are you not entertained?!" Straight-up chills. Kid has ice in his veins. As soon as Alsop turns to conduct the cutoff, you can read it on her face - this thing is over, and it's something unbelievably special.

[@jeff__w]

I took it as “Here we go. _Let’s_ bring it on.” It’s striking how Yunchan Lim creates a unity with the piano and the orchestra. It’s not about _him_ - I think the comments about his “humility” are a bit misplaced, he’s not even remotely ego-focused - it’s all about the music.

[@robinkrop9404]

@@jeff__w I loved that moment too. I felt like his turning to the orchestra was kind of a combination of knowing that they all were going to need to work together to get to the finale, as well as a look of challenge, as in Are you ready? Let's go. It was exciting to see a soloist do that with an orchestra! A good actor can communicate in looks and gesture like this, but in this case, this was real! I actually think that as monastic as he must be, to practice all those insane hours by himself, I think he might also have a rock star actor quality in him!

[@Dh-uj8pr]

A few excerpts from Lim's Korean interviews: "We cannot see the 'real' things with our eyes. Music is invisible, not seen by eyes.. I think it is one of the few real things in this world.. and it's the reason I will keep pursuing music for the rest of my life." (Before the final) "I do not care whether I win or not, I will just try my best to seek and deliver the heritage/legacy of the great musicians of the past to this age." He said his purpose of playing the piano is to express the pain deep inside us and to heal people, again with music. "Music (played by me) can't deceive people so I always try to have a genuinely compassionate and understanding heart toward human beings and the world." He often deliberately cuts himself from modern things or social media to fully interact with the original composer and his intent, and be immersed in the music itself. He said there's a magma-like singing inside him but to perfectly express that beauty of the song he needs to struggle for a long time, study and think a lot, and practice overnight, to go beyond the skills to the realm of pure art.. He also said that though he lives in this century, his mind is living in 19th with the great minds of that time. He is inspired by lots of old literature and everyday incidents. For example, he read the Divine Comedy of Dante countless times and searched lots of foreign documentaries to play a piece of Liszt.

[@mikrocosmos7651]

He even said the only thing he wants is to go deep into the mountains alone with his piano haha

[@7mikekim2]

As far as i know, he commented on something related to Uruk who is legendary gayageum player in ancient korean history. Not a fighter of independence.

[@dsp9777]

@@mikrocosmos7651 It means he wants to focus on music.

[@Dh-uj8pr]

@@7mikekim2 if you watch the recent podcast interview of his teacher 손민수, he says Yunchan said 초절기교 연습곡의 어느 부분에서는 '이 부분은 독립투사의 마음이다'라고도 말했다.

[@7mikekim2]

@@Dh-uj8pr thanks for informing me. Hmm...that sounds somewhat weird to me.

[@jrsidebo]

Rachmaninoff has never been one of my favorites, and it's because there are so many notes and so much passion that it becomes a bit too much for me. I wasn't familiar at all with the 3rd piano concerto. I listened to the competition because I'm nursing a broken foot and didn't have anything else to do. But I was absolutely blown away by this performance and have listened to it multiple times. You have given me the language and discernment to understand why it affected me so. Yunchan Lim gives the definition, the pulse and drive that makes sense of what has always been just plain too overwhelming. Thank you for this discussion and of course, thank you to the Cliburn competition and most of all to Yunchan, the orchestra and conductor for this monumental performance.

[@tonebasePiano]

It's true: Rachmaninoff performances can often come across as overly dense and complicated. The onus is on the performer to articulate what matters in the whirlwind of notes.

[@marksmith3947]

@@tonebasePiano alternatively, the 3rd is a pretty awful piece of music. It's popular because it's a great showpiece for pianists. I can't even click on a recording any more. It's such banal music. I'm not taking away from Lim's playing, which is excellent, if a bit generic. I just think the sycophancy of the competition fans has gotten completely out of hand. You guys are worse than Man U fans!

[@animalsarebeautifulpeople3094]

​​@@marksmith3947 ? Competition fans? ??🤔 generic??

[@jakeschutz6342]

@@tonebasePiano It is why I have always enjoyed Trifanov's reading of this piece. I heard it live in Toronto a few years ago and seen him play it with other orchestras. He plays it with what I can only describe as a bit slower tempi and for me I find it brings out the musicality of the piece. I am not a musician, just a very enthusiastic enthusiast of music and this piece in general. So saying all of that, Yunchan's reading of this concerto is absolutely amazing.

[@francesstroscio8027]

I saw it "live" on tv and thought it was magic from the first note, but your commentary along with the judges is WONDERFUL and helped me understand WHY it was magic so thank you so much for doing this. It teaches me things and was exciting to watch. Absolutely brilliant commentary.!!Thank you thank you thank you!!

[@ThePCSvet]

I've watched his whole performance like 70 times, its incredible..

[@kani37seo64]

I have watched his more than 100 times. Now I know what notes are from the beginning to the end of Rach. And I am looking in Rilke's poems since he mentioned it one of the interviews in the past years. Crazy here!

[@mikrocosmos7651]

You are not alone. Everytime I revisit this performance I discover another beautiful, sparkling notes I never have noticed before..

[@user-jp8yc2xh5j]

So do I. Everyday I listen and watch his performance many times including now.

[@jinkim3190]

Wait! Going on to 55times! Never expect there are competitors

[@ransoh7567]

I will watch his until I die !

[@professionalamateur417]

This was indeed a legendary performance. We will never hear the same again. To be able to play Rachmaninoff 3rd concerto is one thing, but to play Rachmaninoff 3rd concerto, LIKE THIS, at the age of 18, is on another level. I know some people may disagree with me because they think technique isn’t so important, but Lim’s technique is truly incomparable, especially at such a young age. And of course, his musical maturity beats people twice his age. Congratulations.

[@itsjudystube7439]

Beautiful analysis of beautiful performance. Not once did he bully the piano or the music. There was no ugly bombastic performance, but sensitivity and passion.

[@djbiviano]

What did I think when I first listened to his performance? I wept! He carried me throughout to this amazing climactic finish. I'm not a music aficionado or able to compare performances. All I know is, this young man moved me to tears!

[@TomGrahamsa]

I watched the livestream in real time and at the end I knew I had herald something special. I enjoyed you analysis of the performance and discussion of why it was such a great event.

[@laral8137]

You are NOT gushing AT ALL. This is a video all Yunchan’s fans have been waiting for.

[@richs6926]

Exactly! This was the most impressive and detailed review I've seen and it was long-awaited. Ben bringing in two jurists was fantastic and his explanations and examples were point on. I learned a lot from his video and really appreciate his expert analysis. Fantastic! Thank you, Ben. Thank you, GemGem, for mirroring my exact thoughts.

[@user-cz7oq2dd5y]

임윤찬 "어떤 비난과 찬사에도 흔들림이 없어야 한다." 는 릴케의 말을 인용함. "나는 평생을 두고 이를 경계할 것입니다." 임윤찬이 피아노만 잘치나요. 이 아이의 철학은 이미 우리처럼 평범한 사람을 뛰어넘는데. 18살의 현자는 81세 같은 현명함을 이미 가지고 있어요.

[@go3633]

네 저도 그생각을 했어요 인생에 희로애락을 다 아는듯~ 느껴지는게 신기할 따름입니다 윤찬아 너무 고마워 인생이 피아노에 선율처럼 아름답게 느껴지니 더 이상 무엇이라 표현할수 있으랴

[@versavice5293]

그러게요.어떻게 저런 아이가 있지.

[@milchholstein884]

그냥 연주실력 자체가 넘사벽입니다. 솔직히 상당히 많은 연주자들이 고만고만한 실력차이 안에서 어떻게 자신만의 개성을 어필하고 자신의 연주, 음반을 돋보이게 할까를 고민하다가 본전도 못찾는다고 느끼는 연주를 많이 들었습니다. 전 그래서 오히려 거장이라 불리는 분들의 중년 이후의 연주가 더 이상하게 느껴지는 경우가 많더군요. 하지만 임윤찬은 처연하게 모든 것을 내려놓고 어떠한 욕심도 부리지 않는다. 자신의 감정을 내세우지 않고 음악을 돋보이게 한다. 이런 평을 다른 피아니스트가 할 만큼 그런 식으로 연주하면서도 차원이 다른 연주를 보여줄 만큼의 실력차이가 있는 것이라고 생각되네요.

[@rudiw.9169]

I totally agree to Anne-Marie: "Now the concerto is to Yunchan". This performance will be the reference for all further pianists. Like the polar star - always seen but never reached. And actually, he should never play this concerto again in public any more.

[@maumusa123]

Actually, he did in New York last May with a different cadenza. Many people who were there thought he did a better job than the one at the Cliburn competition.

[@sophieblooming8555]

I’m going to hear him play this piece in LA soon!

[@jayr526]

I wound up here after listening to the original performance. Having heard this played by several others including Horowitz I'm just amazed by this 18 year old.

[@MrGreedyBunny]

Yunchan said this in an interview with Korean reporters after winning the gold medal "I don't really care about my career, I want to be in a wilderness playing piano for the rest of my life but I have to make money to sustain that type of lifestyle". After watching his monumental performance, I believe everything he said in that interview. It wasn't some type of hyperbole to show off his passion for music, Yunchan actually entered the competition so he can play piano as much as he wants. Crazy

[@asg77777]

It was his teacher who sent him to this competition, saying, "show the warmth of music to the world", and he did 😊.

[@masonk3757]

"Music is one of the few real things in the world, that’s why humans need it." Quote by Lim when he was only 16. can you imagine how this young pianist has matured soul?

[@luchochemmesvilches6163]

No, hes just an asian kid with harsh parents, thats why he plays many notes fast mode, but music... music aint there my sweet summer boi. Keep listening, one day you ll grow ears.

[@funfun4242]

​@@luchochemmesvilches6163? Where you living on? Now we are living in 21century...

[@Mijah-ff8ib]

@@luchochemmesvilches6163Gosh…. an Asian kid?? I used to get annoyed with people like you, but now I just pity people with such an antagonistic attitude. Hope you have a better perspective on people from the other side of the world. It's 2024, racist!!

[@paulsekhri]

I don't have the words to describe how literally overwhelmed I was by this performance. I don't believe I am being hyperbolic when I say that this is one of the greatest performances of this remarkable concerto, and will go down in history as such. And I have to admit that I too burst into tears of joy at the end.

[@tboyleninetynine]

I was in tears at the end - breathtaking. Martha Argerich has been my favorite for decades, but I think I found a new player.

[@gregterakita1517]

GOAT! Rachmaninoff could not have done better!

[@cygnusarcenciel7374]

Must agree Yunchan Lim’s performance is GOAT to the Nth degree! Just heard him live at Ravinia with Marin Alsop and CSO. Every single audience was in awe. It was glorious, mesmerizing, sublime, transcendent! Historical moment but timeless!

[@luchochemmesvilches6163]

Horowitz's way better, cant compare.

[@toomanyidiots2820]

@@luchochemmesvilches6163 i can see ur music tastes are fucked up lol. look at your playlist lolololol

[@iamrobertu]

I was at that performance and the rehersal in the afternoon before. If anyone has a doubt, just listen to the audience at the end. That's the first time I've heard whistling. It reall sent a chill up my spine!

[@Victoria-wo1dm]

God gave us Yunchan as a gift!!

[@anotherday6898]

임윤찬 피아니스트가 한 가장 고무적인 일은 클래식에 대해 알지 못하는 사람들을 클래식의 세계로 인도했다는 것입니다. 이것은 임윤찬 피아니스트가 가장 원하는 일이었어요. 음악과의 소통 외에 연주자가 할 일이 더 있습니까. 임윤찬 피아니스트는 사람의 마음을 움직입니다.

[@choongwookchoi4594]

나는 최근 10년간 매일 운전을 하면서 뉴욕의 유명한 피아니스트가 연주한 이 곡의 CD를 듣고 있다. 그런데 윤찬이 연주한 이 곡은 전혀 같은 곡이라고는 믿어지지않을 정도로 감정이 솟구치며, 모든 음들이 또렷하게 귀에 들려오며, 그 모든 음들이 제 역할을 하며 전체를 위해 유기적으로 움직이는 것을 느꼈다. 또렷하고 명료하며 설득적이고 서사적이다. 마치 위대하고 아름다운 명품의 도자기를 빚는 장인이 그릇을 만들어 가는 혼신의 힘을 느낀다. 애정이 넘치고 듣는 이로하여금 함께 여정에 동참할 수 있도록 공적인 퍼포먼스를 지향한다. 이는 분명 그의 피아노 연주는 단순히 플레이하는 일방적인 산책이 아니라, 듣는이와 함께 걸어가며 생각하는 깊은 강의 흐름이자 여행이라고 생각한다.

[@caleblauber1441]

I agree completely. I am a weekend warrior pianist who got through half of the 1st movement of the Rach 3. As expected, I completely demolished the beauty of this piece. But when I heard MR Lim’s performance, I about fell over. Unbelievable voicing, no rushing, controlled… I was blown away! Perfection.

[@watrgrl2]

He’s the Jeon Jungkook (of BTS fame) of classical piano! He’s unbelievably talented for such a young man; oozing charisma in his performances and full of depth in his character. He’s surprisingly mature and well rounded yet playful and hip. He’s personable and approachable in his performance and there’s vulnerability, purity, humbleness and humility. He is so accomplished and his art so magnificent and global that when he takes liberties with some part of the performance you smile and giggle because you know that you’d only ever let Yunchan Lim get away with it!

[@johnp.1460]

You’re not gushing too much. As a pianist myself, I watched that performance and was stunned and very emotional because I knew I had heard something magical. I just hope that he records this work soon, and that the recording is as transcendent as was the live performance. Your video commentary and analysis was both intriguing and instructive. Well done.

[@user-pp4rl4vy7x]

In September 2023, I came across Yunchan Lim on KZbin and was shocked. Suddenly, I was transported back to 30 years ago, when I was a poor but passionate graduate student who visited music halls every week to listen to concertos, symphonies, and chamber music. Isn't it really great to be able to rekindle the passion of people who have forgotten the classical musik? Tone Base's video also convinced me. Thank you for your great review of his Rach 3.

[@trifonovfan9819]

Yes! Over q year later, I can honestly say this Rach 3 is the GOAT!

[@peepers4763]

Without the training, without the knowledge but after searching for Cliburn, Horowitz and others, the most enjoyable is Yunchan’s is a favorite by far!

[@user-ki8dw2zu6i]

ㅂ

[@sionmin9777]

Absolutely GOAT

[@matthewherman9870]

Fabulous analysis and YES - the GOAT RACH 3

[@chiragraju821]

No. Yefim played Osisia cadenza with literally the same dynamics everywhere else

[@encarnamendezseara9719]

I can only say that Yunchan Lim makes me remember that Music is the shortest way to the heart

[@pauliberg3492]

absolutely the best ever..there was never ever the sound of the warhorse , he made music, the whole performance was music, not just the correct notes., HE WAS BREATHING MUSIC, BRINGING HEAVEN DOWN TO EARTH..the best ever, bravo bravo.!!!

[@ddestiny44]

I totally agree with ‘bringing heaven down.’

[@mikrocosmos7651]

Omg what a comment!!!

[@enochjung]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y57InGCll9SqY6s This performance was done by Yoon Chan in Korea six months before the Van Cliburn competition, and it is more dynamic and faster. And the encore performance is much impressive.

[@fairplayforchildren]

Yes, from the outset, I said "this is different", I'm so grateful for the technical advocacy here, I'm a listener, amateur, but this sounds to me the GOAT. What do I know? What do we all know .... Your exposition, with the two jurors (jurors for heaven's sake), tells me, I'm right, move over everyone. And his Beethoven 3 and Mozart 22, plus those Transcendental Studies, they too were wonderful .... and all at 18. Also very cute.

[@mikrocosmos7651]

He indeed is CUTE (Also agree with your all other words haha)

[@dianeorehek4633]

Just keep the VULTURES away and let him evolve as he will...his approach has served him well thus far.

[@bbergarch1]

I read in a recent interview that it took him one week to memorize each of the 3 movements. 5 months to learn the Transcendental Etudes and 2 months to learn the Opus 25 Chopin Etudes.

[@Numberonesorabjifan]

He practices like 10 hours a day or something ridiculous like that

[@bbergarch1]

@@Numberonesorabjifan 12

[@brianrhie]

Dear Tonebase Piano, would you please review Yunchan Lim's Liszt Transcendental Etude.

[@alex7633]

yes, Mazzeppa especially

[@davidlawrence8840]

I distinctly remember hearing your “4 favorite notes” and having the exact same reaction.

[@Joy-sb3hp]

the best Rach 3 ever!! It brought me to tears.

[@Dh-uj8pr]

Omg this is the best review I've seen in this yt world. What an amazing analysis! Such a joy to hear from a real professional why it was so different. Pls do it again with his Transcendental Etudes!

[@tonyventura4605]

I would love to hear an analysis of the Transcendental Etudes. In a way, I feel Yunchan was even more astounding!

[@Dh-uj8pr]

@@tonyventura4605 Totally agree! I was even more blown away by it

[@tonebasePiano]

Thank you! His Transcendental Etudes were other-worldly as well. Lots to do here at tonebase, and lots of piano topics to cover, but this won't be the last time we highlight Yunchan.

[@chgone5034]

Yes, please! I love to hear your review on Lim’s TR etudes.

[@catherinej7748]

Totally agree with it

[@skt1winfaker907]

囊中之錐 Talent will show itself. The 18-year-old boy's skills are excellent. Fools only look at phenomenal techniques and talk rubbish about being unimpressed. Did you feel the music with your eyes, not your heart? Many audiences in the contest cried because they were moved by his performance. Yunchan is trying to contain the message that the composer wants and wants to say. He is a genius pianist who pushes himself away completely and becomes one.

[@luchochemmesvilches6163]

18 YEARS OLD CANT PLAY RACHMANINOV, GET OVER IT. If you want a nice version go see Horowitz

[@EricCCho]

Dear "tonebase Piano" ,Your analysis of Lim's concerto was the best analysis of any music or any arts in all of my readings. This may not prove that I represent a well read and informed on arts critiques, but what you did with the performance evaluation with incredible music knowledge was fantastic, very intriguing, enjoyable, and thrilling to hear such appreciation for wonders of music, especially piano on the grandest level. Thanks.

[@DanPark0625]

You said it & I totally agree with you~ He is the GOAT!!!

[@arturomontilla5073]

The Muses were there that night for Yunchan Lim (the Liszt and Mozart ¡superb!). Well deserved. Very few milestones has had this No.3. The almost perfect delivery was done. ¡So organic! ¡Bravo! ¡Bravissimo!, young korean fellow.

[@duaneross9271]

That young man has made me a strong believer. Thank you young Man.

[@harrisongeiser2673]

Miraculously, I will be in the Medoc area at the same time that Yunchan will be there for a concert, so I am very very hopeful that I will be able to see him. An absolutely fantastic pianist who has grown my passion for the piano greatly.

[@saritalynnedwinabaker-brow8709]

G.O.A.T. full stop. And I'm a Horowitz devotee. Just unbelievable.

[@RichardPeterShon]

Masterpiece absolute masterpiece. This is really masterpiece.

[@inchlin8443]

To be honest, I’ve listening to ten or more versions of this concertos, but I won’t anymore, this version is absolutely the greatest I’ve ever heard in my entire life, and because of Yunchan Lim, the rach 3 concerto has now become my favorite concerto

[@cynic150]

Have you heard Berman, Ashkenazy, Wild, Bolet, Orothco, etc.?

[@cynic150]

Have you heard Berman?

[@ologistyurny3752]

please don’t stop listening to all the others they will appreciate your ears snd thoughts

[@cynic150]

@@ologistyurny3752 I hope they do!

[@enochjung]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y57InGCll9SqY6s This performance was done by Yoon Chan in Korea six months before the Van Cliburn competition, and it is more dynamic and faster. And the encore performance is much impressive.

[@MrFrank9025]

Just a humble artist, the essence of the pure art.

[@seungjae35]

Yes, you're definitely right. He makes me cry with joy.

[@cynic150]

Don't forget the composer!

[@ejsk4431]

The best analysis of Rach 3rd by Yunchan Lim.

[@mireajoe5915]

I don't know whether he is best or not but i am just crying every time I watch his playing.

[@animalsarebeautifulpeople3094]

I'm crying because I couldn't get tix to his sold out Rach 3 debut with NY philharmonic 😭😭😭😭

[@Churgum]

Me too 😂

[@joemiller95]

I'll admit I'm kind of surprised. Pretty damn amazing on so many levels.

[@SarumChoirmaster]

I am a retired professional concert violist, also teacher, composer, a cathedral choirmaster specializing in men and boy choirs, playing also violin, organ, piano, harpsichord and a bass singer. YOU have exactly nailed everything about this performance except one thing - Yunchan is a truly spirit filled creature - almost as if he is a monastic master, a hermit of the sublime and the celestial universe. THIS is what makes him so great - his profound and simple godlike humility! I cried through his whole performance.

[@sfrobink]

Another way to say this - I watched an interview with Yunchan in which he said he plays to the great masters. It's like he's in communion with the great pianists, honoring them. He has a very egoless approach and I think it frees him.

[@a42762085]

😍😍

[@user-iv4cd6gg3z]

I cannot agree with you more.

[@user-bs8wb5ow7o]

👍😂😭 I agree...

[@user-fn6kc9vh9h]

임윤찬연주는 매번 볼때마다 눈물이 납니다..왜 그럴까요..