A Historic Performance: David Oistrakh, Mstislav Rostropovich, and Sviatoslav Richter in Beethoven’s Triple Concerto (Moscow, 1972)

In a once-in-a-lifetime collaboration, three of the 20th century’s most distinguished classical musicians—violinist David Oistrakh, cellist Mstislav Rostropovich, and pianist Sviatoslav Richter—come together for a transcendent performance of Beethoven’s Triple Concerto in C Major, Op. 56. Conducted by the legendary Kirill Kondrashin and accompanied by the Moscow Philharmonic Orchestra, this 1972 recording captures the essence of musical mastery and collaboration, offering an unforgettable listening experience.

A Dream Trio: Oistrakh, Rostropovich, and Richter

Each of these musicians brings a unique artistry to their instrument, and together they form a trio that is unparalleled in both technical brilliance and emotional depth. David Oistrakh, with his commanding presence and expressive violin playing, conveys the elegance and power of Beethoven’s violin part with precision and passion. Mstislav Rostropovich, one of the greatest cellists of his time, imbues the cello’s rich, resonant tones with warmth and drama, serving as a perfect complement to Oistrakh’s violin. Sviatoslav Richter, a virtuoso pianist known for his unmatched technical skill and profound interpretative abilities, provides the pianistic foundation, executing Beethoven’s complex piano passages with clarity and depth.

First Movement: Allegro (00:00)

The performance begins with the vibrant Allegro, a movement full of energy and lyrical beauty. From the very first notes, Oistrakh’s violin, Rostropovich’s cello, and Richter’s piano seem to breathe as one, creating a unified sound that flows seamlessly between the three soloists. Their technical precision is matched only by their emotional expressiveness, as each musician draws out the sweeping lines and delicate harmonies of Beethoven’s composition.

Kirill Kondrashin’s direction is both authoritative and nuanced, ensuring that the orchestra provides a rich backdrop while allowing the soloists to shine. The Moscow Philharmonic Orchestra delivers the lush orchestral textures of the Allegro with boldness and elegance, heightening the drama of the movement and setting the stage for the virtuosic exchanges between the solo instruments.

Second Movement: Largo (17:19)

In the Largo, Beethoven gives the performers an opportunity to showcase their ability to evoke deep emotion through their instruments. This slow, lyrical movement is a study in contrast to the lively Allegro, with the soloists offering beautiful, aching lines that weave together in a delicate dialogue. Oistrakh’s violin sounds mournful yet tender, Rostropovich’s cello resonates with profound introspection, and Richter’s piano creates a subtle, harmonic foundation that underpins the beauty of the solo parts.

The movement is imbued with an extraordinary sense of unity and sensitivity between the performers. Their phrasing is subtle and connected, and the result is a hauntingly beautiful rendition of Beethoven’s Largo, a moment of quiet reflection and sublime musical communication.

Third Movement: Rondo alla Polacca (21:48)

The Rondo alla Polacca is an exuberant and lively conclusion to the Triple Concerto, and it showcases the virtuosity of the soloists in a display of technical brilliance and joyful energy. The rhythm of the Polacca is spirited, and the three musicians dive into the movement with a sense of playful collaboration. Oistrakh’s violin dances through the intricate passages, Rostropovich’s cello adds a deep resonance to the lively theme, and Richter’s piano offers rhythmic propulsion and lively ornamentation.

This spirited finale is a delightful celebration of Beethoven’s ingenuity, and the trio’s dynamic interplay brings a sense of excitement and lightness to the performance. Kondrashin leads the orchestra with a buoyant energy that perfectly complements the virtuosity of the soloists, making this conclusion a fitting, exhilarating end to the Triple Concerto.

The Enduring Legacy of This Historic Recording

This 1972 performance of Beethoven’s Triple Concerto remains one of the most iconic recordings of the piece, not only for the remarkable individual talents of Oistrakh, Rostropovich, and Richter but also for the extraordinary synergy between them. The collaboration between these three giants of classical music, combined with Kondrashin’s expert conducting and the Moscow Philharmonic’s impeccable playing, makes this a recording that continues to captivate and inspire music lovers around the world.

From the fiery brilliance of the Allegro to the somber beauty of the Largo, and the exuberant energy of the Rondo alla Polacca, this performance embodies the full range of Beethoven’s genius. It’s a stunning display of musical artistry, and a testament to the timeless power of Beethoven’s music and the enduring legacy of these three extraordinary musicians.