Vladimir Ashkenazy, Bernard Haitink - Rachmaninov - Piano Concerto No. 1, Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini (1987)

Rachmaninov's opus 1, his first piano concerto, deserves to be heard more often. The opening bars have that heroic sound that raises the hair on the back of the neck. Indeed those first moments rank alongside those of the Grieg and Tchaikovsky piano concertos for their ability to thrill.
Ashkenazy's breathtaking playing on a superb piano is matched by that of the Concertgebouw Orchestra under Haitink's direction. Decca's legendary recording techniques provide a breadth and depth to the sound that can be appreciated even at MP3 quality. With a good CD player and headphones the sound opens even more and is stunning both in its richness and clarity. All departments of the orchestra sound wonderful. Listen to the concerto's final movement for the delightful triangle. The detail is magnificent and it's as if one is standing with Bernard Haitink on his podium, totally immersed in this glorious music!
The Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini with the Philharmonia orchestra again under Bernard Haitink is performed and recorded at the same high standard as the concerto.
This CD is highly recommended.