Schumann’s Symphonic Etudes

I just compared four performances of Schumann’s masterpiece, the Symphonic Etudes.   Pogorelich, Richter Rubinstein and Pollini.  The results were very enlightening. Richter and Pogorelich, though representing two different worlds of interpretation, played with electric intensity, whereas Rubinstein was very musical, calm, but still effective, although he left out several variations in this live performance.  Pollini , surprisingly, was just dull, no excitement but indeed very capable. 
 Pogorelich, was, modernistically anti-Romantic in his approach, dry, without much use of pedal, yet incredibly impressive in intensity and technique.  Richter was more in the Romantic tradition with no less virtuosity.  Both pianists were in full command of the piano.  My preference was Pogorelich.

What also impressed me is how easy it is to compare solo players with regard to interpretation.  Orchestral performances are more tricky. The way an orchestra is recorded goes a long way towards your appreciation. You may prefer one recording over another due to how the sound effects you.  Sonics can cloud your perspective