A set of rare ensemble records by the pianist Emil Gilels has been released by the Melodiya sound-recording studio.

      The 4 CD set that goes on sale from today is the first release in the upcoming jubilee series timed to the 100th anniversary since the birth of the legendary musician. The jubilee will be celebrated in 2016.

      The pianist’s grandson Kirill Gilels refers to the release as a big event. “These four CDs have comprised almost all of his ensemble records of the 1940s-1950s, except the Canada released records by the well-known trio of Gilels - Kogan - Rostropovich and records of his later ensembles. These are numerous piano and chamber ensemble records with participation of brilliant performers of that time, including the pianists Yakov Fliyer and Yakov Zack, the violinist Elizabeth Gilels, the horn player Yakov Shapiro, and musicians of the Beethoven Quartet.

      The Emil Gilels. Ensembles CD set has been released in an edition of 1 thousand copies and has already hit the market.