Anthony Kershaw offers an in-depth review of Garrick Ohlsson, Sir Donald Runnicles, and the Grand Teton Music Festival Orchestra’s recordings of The Complete Beethoven Piano Concertos in the Audiophilia Magazine:

“I’m not sure whose idea it was to record this repertoire, but one of the US’s most interesting pianists with a fine conductor and a superb orchestra made up of top professional players from the US and further afield in an idyllic summer setting, sounds like the perfect place for superior music making.

So thumbs up to whoever got the ball rolling, but a special mention to Reference Recordings for recording the five concertos in glorious sound in the acoustically lovely concert hall in Teton Village, Walk Festival Hall.…

Ohlsson is never complacent, especially with these Beethoven works he must have played many times. From the first notes of Piano Concerto No. 1 in C major, Op. 15, to the final joyous music-making of the “Emperor”, Ohlsson beguiles the listener with flawless technique and sparkling tone.…

Kevin Harbison’s recording captures every scintilla of Ohlsson’s tone and phrasing. Good recordings capture the player, here we get a deep look into Ohlsson’s superior musicianship. A couple of times I listened to the three CDs with no break. Ohlsson’s consistency is enviable and I was never less than captivated.…

After a few hours of glorious music-making, you’ll arrive at the mighty Piano Concerto No. 5 in E-flat major, Op. 73, and mighty it sounds. Ohlsson’s sound rings deep into the soundstage and his technique is sure-footed. A fabulous performance to cap off a great cycle.… The orchestra is a wonderful accompanist throughout and Runnicles negotiates the conducting difficulties, especially the 4th and 5th (pizzicato timing) superbly well.… Very highly recommended.”

—Anthony Kershaw, Audiophilia

See the full review on audiophilia.com