Brahms: Variations on a theme by Haydn for orchestra, Op. 56a 'St Anthony Variations'

“This notoriously difficult yet majestic concerto is the perfect vehicle to show off the considerable talents of dazzling French pianist Cedric Tiberghien, who tackles it with a combination of effortless virtuosity and maturity beyond his years. Partnered with the BBC Symphony and new chief conductor Jiri Belohlavek, Tiberghien is equally at home in the light, contemplative passages, the stormy superstructure and the joyous final movement. The orchestra completes its programme with a spirited rendering of Brahms's Haydn Variations.” The Observer

“few recordings in recent years have matched the emotional intensity and drama that Tiberghien and Belohlavek bring to this masterpiece.” Classic FM Magazine

“The French pianist Cédric Tiberghien, now 32, has climbed to prominence slowly, gathering competition prizes, a Harmonia Mundi recording contract and four CD recital discs of core repertoire from Bach to Debussy. He's no flashy virtuoso: one Lang Lang is enough. But he's refreshingly individual, sensitive, strong-minded, intelligent; more than a name to watch.” The Times

“The recording spotlights the piano so that Tiberghien's every note can be heard and pondered, and he never gives the impression of irresponsibility or excessive calculation. But everything is so shaped and rationally conceived that this powerful work never quite achieves its usual impact...” BBC Music Magazine, January 2008 ****

“Both works (Haydn Variations and Don Quixote) were well known to the RPO by this time and the performances exude that ease of understanding which saw Beecham at his best, enabling the great man to add any spontaneous touches as he felt fit. The results are superbly compelling accounts……” International Record Review, October 2007

‘Van Beinum’s performance has a fizzing brilliance, humour and pin-point precision that is hard to beat. A terrific disc.’ International Record Review