Tchaikovsky: The Seasons, Op. 37a; Romance in F Minor, Op. 5. Bruce Liu, pianist. Deutsche Grammophon 486 605-0.
I remember well Bruce Liu's performances at the 18th Chopin Competition back in 2021. Even in a crowded field (which they pretty much all are), I was taken with his sense of poetry in addition to an obligatorily formidable technique. He was the overall winner and deserved to be. Since then, Liu has toured widely and released a small handful of recordings (including one containing his Chopin Competition performances) of high quality. I was particularly taken with the Waves album (DG 486 440-0).
I'm delighted to report that Liu shows absolutely no sign of a quality let-up with this Tchaikovsky release. Those in search of a good Seasons recording have no shortage of wonderful options. But Liu holds his own among any company. Yes, any company. All of these pieces receive great readings, but where Liu really shines is in the slower 'months'. His June and October numbers are especially delicious, accentuating the Tchaikovskian melancholy that is the emotional core of much of this music. An absolutely magical tone, combined with terrific control of pedaling and inner voices, make these distinguished performances indeed. The inclusion of Tchaikovsky's early Romance in F Minor, with its endearingly quirky middle theme, is icing on the cake.
Times are tough and things are expensive. There is a long list of recordings I'd like to own, and a much shorter list of ones I will own soon. Liu's latest goes in the second group. I bet you'll like it at least nearly as much.
Verdict: Highly Recommended
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