In contrast to the nearly immobile body-language of his one-time mentor Vladimir Horowitz, Janis often bounds from the piano bench and flails his arms as if they were being manipulated by a puppeteer, but not to the distracting extremes you see from Lang Lang or Olle Mustonen. The visual direction takes both works' resourceful, concertante-like orchestration into account, although you might wish to see more of what the conductors are doing from an orchestra member's view.

The bonus items are no less than a windfall. Any footage of the tragically short-lived Julius Katchen is welcome, especially in Brahms, the composer with whom the pianist's name most often is linked. The extroverted, big-boned qualities of Katchen's interpretation of the F-sharp minor sonata belie the pianist's physical economy, although astute viewers will notice a gradual build-up of perspiration on his cheeks! The Hungarian Dances also are ravishingly textured and effortlessly executed. In short, this highly recommended DVD is a treat for pianophiles.

--Jed Distler, ClassicsToday.com