Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Eugen d'Albert's piano concertos with this remarkable album, released by Naxos in 1998. This collection showcases two of d'Albert's most notable works: the Piano Concerto No. 1 in B Minor, Op. 2, and the Piano Concerto No. 2 in E Major, Op. 12, alongside the dramatic Overture to "Esther," Op. 8. Born in Glasgow in 1864, Eugen d'Albert was a virtuoso pianist and composer whose works blend Romantic passion with technical brilliance.
The album begins with the Overture to "Esther," a piece that sets the stage for the concertos with its rich orchestration and emotional depth. The Piano Concerto No. 1 in B Minor, Op. 2, is a tour de force, featuring five distinct movements that range from the powerful "Massig" to the introspective "Langsam mit Empfindung." The concerto's final movement, "Dasselbe Zeitmass," brings the piece to a thrilling conclusion.
The Piano Concerto No. 2 in E Major, Op. 12, offers a contrast with its lighter, more lyrical themes. The concerto's four movements, from the energetic "Massig bewegt" to the playful "Sehr lebhaft," demonstrate d'Albert's mastery of both melody and form. The final movement, "Wie vorher," brings the concerto to a satisfying and joyful close.
Conductor Dmitry Yablonsky leads the Naxos ensemble with precision and passion, bringing out the best in these complex and rewarding works. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. With a total duration of 1 hour and 16 minutes, it's a perfect addition to any classical music collection.
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