Bax, A.: Symphonic Variations / Concertante for Piano Left Hand

Immerse yourself in the rich, evocative soundscapes of Arnold Bax's "Symphonic Variations / Concertante for Piano Left Hand," a captivating album released on Naxos in 2009. This collection showcases Bax's mastery of chamber music, offering a profound and engaging listening experience.

Composed during the tumultuous period of the First World War, these works are imbued with a sense of depth and passion, reflecting the composer's personal and historical context. The album features the virtuosic "Symphonic Variations," dedicated to the pianist Harriet Cohen, and the intricate "Concertante for Piano Left Hand," both performed with exquisite skill by pianist Ashley Wass and the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra.

The album spans a diverse range of moods and tempos, from the restless and tumultuous "Youth" to the serene "Nocturne," and the triumphant finale. Each track is a testament to Bax's compositional brilliance, offering a journey through a landscape of sound that is both emotionally resonant and technically impressive.

Arnold Bax, one of England's greatest 20th-century composers, studied at the Royal Academy of Music and held a prominent place in the English musical establishment. His works are known for their rich harmonies, vivid orchestration, and deep emotional expressiveness. This album is a perfect introduction to Bax's unique voice in the world of classical music, offering a blend of technical virtuosity and profound emotional depth.

With a duration of just over an hour, this album is a compelling exploration of Bax's musical genius, perfect for both casual listeners and devoted fans of classical music.