Mozart: Piano Concertos No. 21 & No. 24

Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's Piano Concertos No. 21 & No. 24, a captivating collection released on March 24, 2017, under the Mirare label. This album showcases two of Mozart's most celebrated piano concertos, performed with exquisite artistry by Jean Claude Pennetier, accompanied by the Orchestre Philharmonique de Radio France, under the direction of Christoph Poppen.

The album opens with the enchanting Piano Concerto No. 21 in C Major, K. 467, a piece renowned for its lyrical beauty and vivacious energy. The first movement, "Allegro," sets the stage with its lively and engaging melody, followed by the serene and introspective "Andante." The concerto concludes with the spirited "Allegro vivace assai," leaving the listener in awe of Mozart's compositional genius.

The second half of the album features the profound and dramatic Piano Concerto No. 24 in C Minor, K. 491. The opening "Allegro" movement is marked by its intense and passionate character, while the "Larghetto" offers a moment of tender reflection. The concerto culminates in a lively "Allegretto," showcasing Mozart's mastery of both emotional depth and musical exuberance.

With a total duration of 57 minutes, this album is a testament to Mozart's enduring influence on classical music. Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this collection promises a rich and rewarding listening experience.

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, born in Salzburg in 1756, stands as one of the most celebrated composers in the history of Western music. His prodigious talent was evident from a young age, with Mozart composing his first piece at just five years old and performing publicly by six. Throughout his relatively short life, he composed over 600 works, spanning virtually every genre of his time, including symphonies, operas, concertos, and chamber music. Mozart's compositions are renowned for their melodic beauty, formal elegance, and rich harmonies, earning him a place among the greatest composers of all time. His operas, such as "Le nozze di Figaro" and "Don Giovanni," remain staples of the operatic repertoire, while his symphonies and piano concertos continue to captivate audiences worldwide. Despite his untimely death at the age of 35, Mozart's musical legacy endures, inspiring generations of musicians and composers.