Joshua Pierce, a world-renowned and award-winning classical pianist, presents a captivating collection of piano concertos with his album "J.S. Bach, Haydn and Mendelssohn: Piano Concertos." Released on March 8, 2016, under the MSR Classics label, this album is a testament to Pierce's virtuosity and his deep understanding of the classical repertoire.
The album features nine tracks, spanning a total duration of one hour and two minutes, showcasing the works of three titans of classical music: Johann Sebastian Bach, Joseph Haydn, and Felix Mendelssohn. The concertos are performed with the Slovak National Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Kirk Trevor, delivering a performance that has been praised as "beautifully played" and "engagingly performed."
The album opens with Haydn's Piano Concerto in D Major, Hob.XVIII, followed by his Piano Concerto in A Minor. These works exemplify Haydn's mastery of form and his ability to blend elegance with innovation. The album then transitions to Bach's Keyboard Concerto No. 5 in F Minor, BWV 1056, showcasing Bach's intricate contrapuntal writing and profound harmonic language.
Pierce's interpretation of these works is marked by a delicate balance of technical precision and expressive depth. His playing is characterized by a keen sense of phrasing and a rich, resonant tone, which brings out the full emotional range of these concertos. The Slovak National Symphony Orchestra provides a sensitive and nuanced accompaniment, highlighting the interplay between the soloist and the ensemble.
This album is a must-listen for fans of classical music, offering a fresh and insightful perspective on these timeless masterpieces. Whether you are a seasoned concert-goer or a casual listener, Joshua Pierce's rendition of these piano concertos is sure to inspire and delight.