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These preludes and fugures by Shostakovich are not the easiest in the world for interpretation. Think a Slavic Bach. It is unfair to call these works "modern" and it's not just because they are with the confines of a Medieval form. But sometimes the listener will catch something that is reminiscent of 20th centyury Soviet music. These works are miniatures - a form totally at odds with the usual way we consider the composer. Tatiana Nikolayeva is simply brilliant in her interpretation - the clarity is startling. It may take a while but this is a recording that appreciates the more it is heard.

To play Schumann with lyrical beauty and a dreamlike inspiration is a rare gift, for many pianists tend to fall into the pit of dry and all to rythmic hammering, even empty loudness. Richter doesn't fall into that but playes the monumental Schumann etude-variations with a warm and strong charactered insight. The tempos are never to the exstreme in either way and the pedaling is moderate, without ever bringing to birth an unplesent staccato. The triumphant final march is garanteed to raise your hair, not only because of Schumanns beautyfull music but also because of Richters powerfull and joyfull approach. This recording ranks among the very best. The Beethoven variations are also well served here although not exeptional.