Cassard,Philippe / Pescia,Cedric Beethoven/Liszt: Symphony No. 9 CD

While any of Liszt's superb transcriptions of Beethoven's first eight symphonies is a challenge for the pianist, the two-piano arrangement of the Ninth is at once spellbinding and a formidable test. This remarkable synthesis of soloists, chorus and orchestra presents a powerful structure that condenses all the fearsome difficulties of ensemble playing for the two pianists. This version by Philippe Cassard and C?dric Pescia displays extraordinary nobility, truth and grandeur, with the epic sweep ideally suited to the "Ode to Joy".

1. Symphony No. 9, Transcription for Two Pianos By Franz Liszt - I. Allegro Ma Non Troppo, Un Poco Maestoso 2. Symphony No. 9, Transcription for Two Pianos By Franz Liszt - II. Molto Vivace - Presto 3. Symphony No. 9, Transcription for Two Pianos By Franz Liszt - III. Adagio Molto E Cantabile - Andante Moderato - Adagio Stesso Tempo 4. Symphony No. 9, Transcription for Two Pianos By Franz Liszt - IV. Finale: Presto 5. Symphony No. 9, Transcription for Two Pianos By Franz Liszt - V. Finale: Allegro Assai - Presto - Recitativo - Allegro Assai 6. Symphony No. 9, Transcription for Two Pianos By Franz Liszt - VI. Finale: Allegro Assai Vivace Alla Marcia - Andante Maestoso - Adagio Ma Non Troppo Ma Devoto 7. Symphony No. 9, Transcription for Two Pianos By Franz Liszt - VII. Finale: Allegro Energico - Allegro Ma Non Tanto - Prestissimo