Carlo Maria Giulini (1914-2005): very different personality, Italian chef made one think of a Visconti of the stick. The figure is understated, elegant and lordly handsome man. This noble temperament is reflected in its elegant interpretations, detailed and always inhabited spiritually speaking. The meeting of the two men at these 1979 concerts (engraved by DGG) is done under the sign of elegance and vitality.
In a landmark 1950 recording, Fischer and Furtwängler played the vastness, the power of a twin work of the 5th Symphony: brass and fire. The Italians lead us in a less dramatic ball but retaining all its grandeur. Michelangeli attacks first movement demiurge. The violent flood of Fischer makes up a leaping wave. True to his style, the pianist abandons any notes. A dazzling virtuosity that does not sacrifice the emotion, the joy of living, an introductory improvisation that Beethoven wanted it as such. Throughout the movement, the affected gaining frenzied nervousness. The orchestra responds majesty (feminine noun) So with finesse. The collusion is total as frequently in concert conversely the studio.
The second movement, after a serene orchestral introduction (what a balance between the desks!), Oscillates between ballad and night. The fingering of the pianist keeps frankness and nuance in line with the initial allegro. A colorful and bright speeches, poetic brain ever, frankly, that still say that does not fade?
Those who read these lines and know one or two records will not be surprised. For those who would like to discover this concerto in its fullness, I would recommend the duo Michelangeli / Giulini without restriction.