This CD is actually NEW and factory-sealed, but it's the BMG Direct version, so I'm calling it just Like New. Additional Details ------------------------------ Product description: In his career-long quest to reinterpret classical music by filtering it through his unique jazz sensibility, pianist Jacques Loussier now takes on the work of Mozart's Piano Concertos. Uniquely, this time the Jacques Loussier Trio is accompanied by a String Orchestra. Mozart's Piano Concerto in D minor, K. 466, has been the bench-mark of all piano concertos, it was one of the very few Mozart compositions to be performed with any frequency during the 19th century, and it made a powerful impression on Beethoven, who composed two superb cadenzas for it. It in no surprise therefore, that Loussier should now make his mark. Indeed, the basis for the concerto opens with the perfect backdrop for Loussier to work with - syncopations, agitated rhythms, grumbling in the bass to mark the downbeat, and no identifiable theme. The dialogue between piano and accompaniment converse seriously, yet wittily at the same time, each commenting on and attempting to outdo the other in persuasive technique. The Rondo Presto (track 3) immediately launches itself into a samba-type rhythm giving an extraordinarily up-beat feel to this movement. Piano Concerto No.23 begins with an extended orchestral part followed by a piano solo, as per the original. The only off-set is the counter-beat of the percussion accompaniment. Again there is room for Loussier to explore, as unlike Mozart's other concertos, there is the absence of a solo theme, allowing him to create his own version. The second movement is a beautiful translation of Mozart's impassioned writing, with the string orchestra being used as a light accompaniment. The third movements invites the indivual instruments of the trio to show-off their true colours, as well as giving the string orchestra more of a say. Personnel: Jacques Loussier Trio with String Orchestra Format: import