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A TAV Curator’s Pick.

In 1960 Martha Argerich was not yet a household name. Martha Argerich’s exhilarating early recordings, released here for the first time. This set displaying the young virtuoso includes works which are already numbered among the highlights of her discography, notably Prokofiev’s Toccata op. 11 and Ravel’s Gaspard de la nuit and Sonatine, but it also features works which seem far from typical of her repertory. Mozart’s D major Sonata K576 and Beethoven’s Piano Sonata op. 10 no. 3, also in D major, are both works that have previously not been a part of Martha Argerich’s official discography. They show her to be an eloquent and imaginative artist at the age of 18, already at the peak of her abilities. – Deutsche Grammophon

“These recordings were sourced by DGG from 1960s German radio recordings. Some were recorded before Argerich triumphed in the Chopin Piano Competition. Some, after.  Before or after the world's imprimatur, these recordings show the genius of Argerich's playing. Faultless technique, sparkling sound, youthful courage and wonderful musicianship.” – Audiophilia

“Her Mozart bubbles with the freshness and effervescence of a Bernini fountain in the midday sun. Carefree runs and passagework cascade, catching the protean play of light. The Adagio unfolds with a touchingly guileless simplicity, while the finale seems less a dialogue than a convivial gathering of friends. It is impossible to take issue with this calibre of Mozart-playing. Unalloyed pleasure is the only response.” – Gramophone

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