MARBECKS COLLECTABLE: Chopin: Preludes (complete) and other piano works

"In the Op. 28 Preludes, Barenboim infrequently offers a true legato, preferring small bumps in his phrasing; although a technically difficult way to go when presenting fast arpeggios, I find the rewards minimal. However, the most damaging feature of Barenboim's interpretation concerns the lack of excitement he brings to the powerful preludes #8, #16, #18, and #24. In these pieces, the drive and strength is definitely diminished. I am somewhat surprised with this tepid approach given that the preludes #12 and #22 display an abundance of punch and grit.

However, all is not lost. Barenboim fully conveys the bleakness of #2, #4, and #6. The serenity he offers in #7 is captivating, and there is no lack of ceremony in #9. Perhaps his most interesting approach comes in #23 that is one of the slowest performances on record at well over one minute. Some listeners might find the tempo sluggish, but I consider the performance very sweet, loving, and luxurious. So, Barenboim's way with Op. 28 is very much a mixed bag that is many rungs below the quality of the comparison versions."
(ClassicalNet April 2006)