The Pachmofo is a bit underappreciated tru. I think it’s partly because of Schonberg and partly his own fault in that he really WAS a clown. But at least a colourful one who’s often a lot of fun to listen to. My main issue with him is that I have such problems getting used to the style which was à la mode at the time. Lots of short lines stacked serially, giving a small, nervous and choppy impression. The next gen Russians fixed this once and for all when they arrived.
Seems that moi and TM are the only guys around here who love da Pach’s early recordings. It is ultra-refined, light, colourful, delicate playing but not without power when needed. There is jeu perlé and bel canto - the guy was born when Chopin was still alive so you can’t expect qualities of a more “modern” pianist. One thing in the Chopin that is missing is a sense of heroism. But he makes that up with terrific speed & articulation (in the early recs). He was a miniaturist but he did reform the salon-style, combining the elegance with the more sonorous Lisztian style.
There’s a recording of the first Chopin impromptu which I consider the best version I’ve ever heard. I think it’s this one:
youtu.be/KGfvqchcYys
I think there’s an even earlier recording (I think 1911, have to check) which is less mannered and more clear. Will post it if it’s not available.
I wasn’t able to listen to verify, the one I’m after was really lyrical in the middle section. I have it on my computer somewhere. I remember it not being the one I heard on a Pearl (?) disc.
Btw Brew, maybe you know or have it already, but if you want to download the complete Marston set, you can do it here:
chopiniano.blogspot.com/search/l … 20Pachmann
I have the set (forgot I had it, randomly). But rezpec anyway.