In this article, I discussed how Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto Number 1 was rejected by Tchaikovsky’s mentor, the best pianist in Russia, Nikolai Rubinstein, – who termed this concerto “pathetic,” among other insults. But after the concerto’s successful premiere in Boston, Rubinstein changed his mind and actually conducted its premiere in Moscow.
A similar fate faced Tchaikovsky’s only violin concerto, except that it was rejected not by one but by two performers. Parts were difficult to play. Critics did not like this concerto either. One called it “long and pretentious,” and that critic continued, “The violin is not played but beaten black and blue.” Just like Tchaikovsky’s piano concerto, this violin concerto became a tremendous success and is now among the most beloved violin concertos.
Here is Isaac Stern performing this concerto with The Philadelphia Orchestra.
It’s very interesting. Neither the leading performer or music critics of his day could see anything redeeming in either Concerto by Tchaikovsky, yet they have become so well-loved right around the world. It might say something about the reliability of expert technical opinion when it comes to assessing complex issues, e.g. investment choices.
It reminds me of this wonderful movie “The Concert” by Radu Mihaileanu. A must see !