Rachmaninov : Prelude, Op 32/12 played by Vladimir Horowitz : Pianola Institute

[ReturnOfTheStienway]

good words about the reproduction. I think this roll sounds amazing still

[bigcity233]

Great performance - the sound is sensuous the tone is beautiful. By the time Horowitz came to the US, electrical recording technology was standard and interest in reproducing pianos was waning, though he did record a few rolls for Duo-Art in the late 20's. i've read Horowitz was not a fan of his reproducing piano rolls.

[pianolainstitute]

Interesting to have your comment about the piano tone. Pianos nowadays, and indeed since the Second War, are no longer anything like the same in tone as they were. Steinways in particular are much, much harder than they used to be. You may well like them like that, but in this case Horowitz would have recorded on a very similar sounding piano. It is remarkable how quickly our perceptions of what is historically accurate change. Ain't no such thing as truth, in whatever field!

[hellomate639]

Great playing, mediocre piano. Mushy, not just the recording instruments, the piano is actually mushy.

[stagehand19]

What a lovely sound. I love his technique but not the harsh tone normally associated with Horowitz's piano. This piano tone is beautifull so typical of the German built steinways. I have a 1914 built steinway very similar in tone. Bravo!

[umbrellano]

There is a touch of frenziness in this piece. For me, the playing a bit hypnotic, very sensuous, though bordering on an unconcious level of madness.

[kasyapa]

another closed account.

[ClassicalMusicReview]

The playing here has a beautiful Autumnal luminescence that dots the landscape like a starry night in the chill.The trees are whistling in the breeze and the silence is warning of snow soon to come as we hurry home through the wooded pathway by the moonlit lake to a gentle fireplace and some Grand Marnier.

[kasyapa]

closed account ... i wonder why. maybe you were too cynical?