Glen Gould, New York Philarmonia Orchestra, Leonard Bernstein - Beethoven: Piano Concerto 4 (1961/2015) [DSD128 + Hi-Res FLAC]

This recording, with Leonard Bernstein conducting the New York Philharmonic, was made in 1961. Gould’s performance is thoughtful, nuanced, and not at all eccentric. What’s most striking about his playing is the degree to which he’s able to bring out the individuality of the contrapuntal lines. His performance is extremely graceful. The New York Philharmonic’s sound is warm and full, and the playing is absolutely secure. Gould’s characteristic humming is occasionally audible, but at such a low level that only the purist who demands absolutely clean sound is likely to be offended.