Music Review: Lang Lang: Live in Vienna

From the initial news release:  "Sony Classical is proud to announce its debut release “LIVE IN VIENNA” from one of the most thrilling and inspiring musicians of our time, the world-renowned pianist LANG LANG. Recorded and filmed live in Vienna’s legendary Musikverein concert hall, the Sony Classical debuted on August 24th in multiple formats. This release represents Lang Lang’s second live recorded recital to date after the best-selling “Live at Carnegie Hall” in 2004, which marked his international breakthrough as a recording artist. He has performed the new album’s program at the world’s major concert venues and will continue to tour with it throughout 2011."

So that you can see Lang Lang perform in person, here are the upcoming 2010 U.S. Tour Dates:

September 18 – Dallas, TX – Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center

September 20 – Santa Fe, NM – Santa Fe Opera House

September 22 – Newark, NJ – Prudential Hall

September 25 – Washington D.C. – John F. Kennedy Center Concert Hall

September 29 – NYC – Carnegie Hall

December 31 – NYC – Avery Fisher Hall

So what did I think:  Unbeatable combination for an enjoyable musical listening experience. Lang Lang's recital in Vienna features Beethoven Sonatas, and works of Albeniz, Prokofiev and Chopin.  I enjoy hearing his performance of old favorites, as well as, pieces that are less frequently performed. The music is varied though almost too soft at times but always keeps your attention. Enjoyable, entertaining and a good listen! This live recording is a good venue for his performance and definitely worth the listen, though I usually prefer studio recordings.

Disclosure: I received a review copy of Lang Lang: Live in Vienna from Sony Music in exchange for my honest review and opinion. No additional compensation was received.