Herz: Piano Concerto No. 2 & Other Works

Henri Herz's "Piano Concerto No. 2 & Other Works" is a captivating exploration of the Romantic piano concerto repertoire, showcasing the virtuosity and flair of this often-overlooked composer. Released on Hyperion in 2015, this album features the talented Howard Shelley on piano, accompanied by the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra. The centerpiece of the album is Herz's Piano Concerto No. 2 in C Minor, Op. 74, a three-movement work that highlights Herz's knack for blending technical brilliance with engaging melodies. The concerto is complemented by a selection of other works, including the Grande fantaisie militaire sur "La fille du régiment", Op. 163, and the Fantaisie et variations sur la marche d'Otello de Rossini, Op. 67. These pieces demonstrate Herz's ability to assimilate influences from other composers, such as Chopin and Hummel, and infuse them with his own unique style. The album also includes the Grande polonaise brillante, Op. 30, a showpiece that showcases Shelley's virtuosity. With a total duration of 1 hour and 5 minutes, this album offers a comprehensive overview of Herz's contributions to the Romantic piano concerto genre, making it a valuable addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection.