Sviatoslav Richter (March 20, 1915 - August 1, 1997) was hailed as the greatest pianist of the 20th century.
Recorded: May 1987, Mantova
Richter had a vast and stimulating repertoire, but he did not actively perform Brahms' works. In that respect, this live performance in Mantua in 1987 is a valuable one. Richter's playing gradually changed to a more introspective direction from around the age of 60, and this characteristic is reflected in the wonderfully mature and narrative expression of these two pieces.
