Ravel Piano Concerto For The Left Hand Youtube
The Ravel Piano Concerto for the Left Hand is a staple of the classical music repertoire. With its haunting melodies and powerful chords, the piece has captivated audiences for over 80 years. Alongside Beethoven's "Moonlight Sonata", Chopin's "Nocturne in E-flat major", and Rachmaninoff's "Prelude in C-sharp minor", it is a must-learn for any pianist worth their salt. However, if you're unable to attend a live performance, there are plenty of stunning renditions of the concerto available on Youtube. Below, we'll delve into the piece's history, its significance, and some of the best performances available online.
The History of Ravel's Piano Concerto for the Left Hand
The concerto was written by French composer Maurice Ravel in 1929. It was commissioned by Austrian pianist Paul Wittgenstein, who had lost his right arm in World War I. Despite this setback, Wittgenstein was determined to carry on his musical career, and he commissioned several composers to write pieces specifically for the left hand. Ravel's concerto, which was written over the course of two years, was the most successful of these compositions.
The piece premiered in January 1932, with Wittgenstein himself as the soloist. It was an instant success, and the audience was awestruck by the power and beauty of the music. Since then, the concerto has become a staple of the classical music repertoire, and it is regularly performed by orchestras and soloists around the world.
The Significance of the Ravel Piano Concerto for the Left Hand
There are several reasons why Ravel's concerto is considered significant. Firstly, it is a technical masterpiece. The piece is incredibly difficult to play, even for experienced pianists, as it requires a high level of dexterity and control of the left hand. However, despite its complexity, the concerto sounds effortless and fluid in the hands of a skilled musician.
Secondly, the concerto is a testament to human resilience. Wittgenstein's determination to carry on playing the piano, despite losing his right arm, is an inspiration to us all. The piece serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, we can still achieve incredible things if we are willing to work hard and persist.
The Best Renditions of Ravel's Piano Concerto for the Left Hand on Youtube
There are countless performances of Ravel's concerto available on Youtube, but here are a few standout renditions:
Pierre-Laurent Aimard with the London Symphony Orchestra
Pierre-Laurent Aimard is one of the world's leading pianists, and his rendition of Ravel's concerto is simply stunning. He brings out the piece's nuances and subtleties in a way that few other pianists can. This performance, with the London Symphony Orchestra conducted by Sir Simon Rattle, is a must-watch for any classical music lover.
Leon Fleisher with the Cleveland Orchestra
Leon Fleisher is another pianist who has had to overcome physical challenges in his career. He lost the use of his right hand due to a neurological condition, but he continued to perform and teach with his left hand. His performance of Ravel's concerto with the Cleveland Orchestra is a testament to his skill and determination.
Arturo Benedetti Michelangeli with the London Symphony Orchestra
Arturo Benedetti Michelangeli was known for his incredible technical ability and his meticulous attention to detail. His performance of Ravel's concerto is a masterclass in precision and artistry. This recording, with the London Symphony Orchestra conducted by Carlo Maria Giulini, is a must-listen for anyone interested in the piece.
Conclusion
The Ravel Piano Concerto for the Left Hand is a masterpiece of classical music, and it continues to captivate audiences around the world. Whether you're a seasoned pianist or a casual listener, there is something in this piece for everyone. So, why not take some time to explore the performances available on Youtube and discover the beauty of this incredible concerto for yourself?