"Playground - Rikke Sandberg Plays Works by Herman D. Koppel" is a captivating journey through the piano compositions of Herman D. Koppel, masterfully interpreted by the talented Danish pianist Rikke Sandberg. Released on December 2, 2019, via Danacord Records, this album offers a comprehensive exploration of Koppel's piano concertos and solo pieces, providing a unique opportunity to experience the depth and breadth of his musical genius.
The album kicks off with the powerful Piano Concerto No. 3, Op. 45, featuring Sandberg accompanied by the South Jutland Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Bo Holten. This three-movement concerto showcases Sandberg's technical prowess and expressive range, from the energetic "Allegro" to the introspective "Andante" and the lively "Rondo - Presto."
In addition to the concerto, the album presents a selection of Koppel's solo piano works, including the charming "Pastorale: Allegretto" and the diverse "Ten Piano Pieces, Op. 20." These pieces demonstrate Koppel's versatility and innovation, ranging from the playful "Giocoso" to the somber "Dolente" and the intricate "Allegretto (Theme with Variations)."
A highlight of the album is the collaboration between Sandberg and saxophonist Benjamin Koppel, the grandson of Herman D. Koppel. Their performances of the "Nine Dialogical Responses for Alto Saxophone and Piano" offer a unique blend of timbres and a captivating dialogue between the two instruments.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 4 minutes, "Playground" is a testament to Rikke Sandberg's artistry and her deep connection to the music of Herman D. Koppel. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this album promises an engaging and enriching listening experience.
(C) 2019 Danacord Records(P) 2019 Danacord Records
Tracks
Piano Concerto No. 3, Opus 45: I. AllegroHerman D. Koppel, Rikke Sandberg, Bo Holten, South Jutland Symphony Orchestra
Piano Concerto No. 3, Op. 45: II. AndanteHerman D. Koppel, Rikke Sandberg, Bo Holten, South Jutland Symphony Orchestra
Piano Concerto No. 3, Op. 45: III. Rondo - PrestoHerman D. Koppel, Rikke Sandberg, Bo Holten, South Jutland Symphony Orchestra
Pastorale: AllegrettoHerman D. Koppel, Rikke Sandberg, Bo Holten, South Jutland Symphony Orchestra
Ten Piano Pieces, Op. 20: I. AndantinoHerman D. Koppel, Rikke Sandberg, Bo Holten, South Jutland Symphony Orchestra
Nine Dialogical Responses for Alto Saxophone and Piano: Dialogical Response IBenjamin Koppel, Rikke Sandberg, Bo Holten, South Jutland Symphony Orchestra
Ten Piano Pieces, Op. 20: II. GiocosoHerman D. Koppel, Rikke Sandberg, Bo Holten, South Jutland Symphony Orchestra
Nine Dialogical Responses for Alto Saxophone and Piano: Dialogical Response IIBenjamin Koppel, Rikke Sandberg, Bo Holten, South Jutland Symphony Orchestra
Ten Piano Pieces, Op. 20: III. DolenteHerman D. Koppel, Rikke Sandberg, Bo Holten, South Jutland Symphony Orchestra
Nine Dialogical Responses for Alto Saxophone and Piano: Dialogical Response IIIBenjamin Koppel, Rikke Sandberg, Bo Holten, South Jutland Symphony Orchestra
Ten Piano Pieces, Op. 20: IV. AndantinoHerman D. Koppel, Rikke Sandberg, Bo Holten, South Jutland Symphony Orchestra
Nine Dialogical Responses for Alto Saxophone and Piano: Dialogical Response IVBenjamin Koppel, Rikke Sandberg, Bo Holten, South Jutland Symphony Orchestra
Ten Piano Pieces, Op. 20: V. Poco AllegroHerman D. Koppel, Rikke Sandberg, Bo Holten, South Jutland Symphony Orchestra
Nine Dialogical Responses for Alto Saxophone and Piano: Dialogical Response VBenjamin Koppel, Rikke Sandberg, Bo Holten, South Jutland Symphony Orchestra
Ten Piano Pieces, Op. 20: VI. AndantinoHerman D. Koppel, Rikke Sandberg, Bo Holten, South Jutland Symphony Orchestra
Nine Dialogical Responses for Alto Saxophone and Piano: Dialogical Response VIBenjamin Koppel, Rikke Sandberg, Bo Holten, South Jutland Symphony Orchestra
Ten Piano Pieces, Op. 20: VII. AllegroHerman D. Koppel, Rikke Sandberg, Bo Holten, South Jutland Symphony Orchestra
Nine Dialogical Responses for Alto Saxophone and Piano: Dialogical Response VIIBenjamin Koppel, Rikke Sandberg, Bo Holten, South Jutland Symphony Orchestra
Ten Piano Pieces, Op. 20: VIII. AllegrettoHerman D. Koppel, Rikke Sandberg, Bo Holten, South Jutland Symphony Orchestra
Nine Dialogical Responses for Alto Saxophone and Piano: Dialogical Response VIIIBenjamin Koppel, Rikke Sandberg, Bo Holten, South Jutland Symphony Orchestra
Ten Piano Pieces, Op. 20: IX. AllegroHerman D. Koppel, Rikke Sandberg, Bo Holten, South Jutland Symphony Orchestra
Nine Dialogical Responses for Alto Saxophone and Piano: Dialogical Response IXBenjamin Koppel, Rikke Sandberg, Bo Holten, South Jutland Symphony Orchestra
Ten Piano Pieces, Op. 20: X. Allegretto (Theme with Variations)Herman D. Koppel, Rikke Sandberg, Bo Holten, South Jutland Symphony Orchestra
Danish pianist Rikke Sandberg is celebrated for her bold and heartfelt interpretations of classical piano repertoire. Her playing is marked by a deep emotional connection to the music, making her performances both captivating and true to the spirit of the compositions. Sandberg's discography includes notable recordings of works by Brahms, Rachmaninov, and Nielsen, each showcasing her technical virtuosity and expressive depth. Her collaboration with pianist Kristoffer Hyldig on two pianos, featuring a Steinway and a Fazioli, has been particularly praised for its clarity and synchronisation, delivering thrilling results. Sandberg's ability to bring fresh perspectives to familiar pieces makes her a standout artist in the classical piano world.
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