Pianists like to argue about which version of Rachmaninoff's Piano Sonata No. 2 is better, the original 1913 version or the composer's 1931 revision. When we invited pianist Todd Yaniw to CBC Toronto Studio 211 for a recording session, he opted for the longer, original version.
Over 100 years since it entered the world, this sonata has lost none of its power to captivate, with rich harmonies, compelling melodies, a wide dynamic range and lots of opportunities for the pianist to display technical and emotional engagement. It is a rewarding piece of music, for the performer as well as the audience.
In 1968, Vladimir Horowitz broke a string on the piano in Carnegie Hall during a performance of this sonata. While Yaniw plays with intensity, we're grateful on behalf of our Steinway that he showed some restraint. Watch:
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Listen to CBC Music’s Piano stream