Immerse yourself in the rich, vibrant world of Aram Khachaturian's piano concertos with the album "Khachaturian: The Concertante Works for Piano." Released on September 2, 2022, this classical masterpiece is a testament to Khachaturian's expressive immediacy, characterized by sensuous melodic writing, vibrant orchestration, and rhythmic drive.
The album features the renowned Piano Concerto in D-Flat Major, Op. 38, which established Khachaturian's name in the musical world. Composed in 1936, this concerto is cast in three movements: the Allegro ma non troppo e maestoso, the Andante con anima, and the Allegro brillante. Each movement showcases Khachaturian's unique ability to blend technical brilliance with emotional depth.
In addition to the concerto, the album includes a suite from "Masquerade," arranged for piano solo by A. Dolukhanian. This suite comprises five movements: the Waltz, Nocturne, Mazurka, Romance, and Galop. These pieces offer a delightful contrast to the concerto, showcasing Khachaturian's versatility and range.
The Concerto-Rhapsody, performed in its version for piano and orchestra, is another highlight of the album. This piece is divided into four sections: the Beginning, Reh. 17, Reh. 31, and Reh. 69. Each section offers a unique exploration of Khachaturian's compositional style, from the initial, dramatic opening to the intricate, rhythmic complexities of the later sections.
Performed by the BBC National Orchestra of Wales, under the direction of Andrew Litton, and featuring the virtuoso pianist Iyad Sughayer, this album is a must-listen for any classical music enthusiast. With a total duration of 1 hour and 15 minutes, it offers a comprehensive exploration of Khachaturian's concertante works for piano, making it a valuable addition to any music collection.