Britten: Piano Concerto; Diversions; Young Apollo

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Benjamin Britten's orchestral masterpieces with the album "Britten: Piano Concerto; Diversions; Young Apollo." This collection, released on September 1, 2008, under the Hyperion label, showcases Britten's extraordinary talent and versatility as a composer. The album features three of Britten's most celebrated works: the Piano Concerto in D Major, Op. 13, the enchanting "Young Apollo," Op. 16, and the intricate "Diversions for Piano Left Hand & Orchestra," Op. 21.

The Piano Concerto, a cornerstone of Britten's repertoire, is a dynamic and spirited piece that highlights the pianist's virtuosity and the orchestra's richness. The "Diversions," originally composed for Paul Wittgenstein, who lost his right arm in World War I, is a tour de force for the left hand, showcasing Britten's innovative approach to composition. "Young Apollo," a lesser-known gem, is a lyrical and evocative piece that blends the intimacy of a string quartet with the grandeur of a full orchestra.

Conducted by Ilan Volkov and performed by the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, this recording captures the essence of Britten's music with precision and passion. The album, produced by Andrew Keener and engineered by Simon Eadon, was recorded in September 2007 at the Henry Wood Hall in Glasgow, Scotland. With a total runtime of 71 minutes and 10 seconds, this album offers a comprehensive exploration of Britten's orchestral works, making it a valuable addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection.