Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Nikolai Medtner's piano concertos with this comprehensive collection, "Medtner: Piano Concerto Nos. 1-3." Released on June 1, 2001, by the esteemed label BIS, this album spans a generous 2 hours and 32 minutes, offering a deep dive into the romantic and expressive compositions of the early twentieth-century Russian composer and pianist.
Medtner, a contemporary of Rachmaninoff and Scriabin, crafted three stunning piano concertos that showcase his unique voice in the classical piano repertoire. This album presents all three concertos in their entirety, allowing listeners to appreciate the evolution of Medtner's style and his mastery of the piano concerto form.
The First Piano Concerto in C Minor, Op. 33, opens the album with its dramatic and impassioned Allegro, followed by the serene Dolce tranquillo and the spirited Tempo risoluto. The Second Piano Concerto in C Minor, Op. 50, features a powerful Toccata, a lyrical Romanza, and a lively Divertissement. The Third Piano Concerto in E Minor, Op. 60, nicknamed "Ballade," concludes the collection with its expansive Con moto largamento, the introspective Interludium, and the exhilarating Finale.
In addition to the concertos, the album includes two piano sonatas and selections from Medtner's "Forgotten Melodies," Op. 38 and Op. 39, providing a well-rounded exploration of his piano works. Medtner's compositions are known for their rich harmonies, intricate structures, and profound emotional depth, making this album a treasure trove for classical music enthusiasts and those eager to discover the beauty of Medtner's music.