Reger: Piano Concerto – R. Strauss: Burleske - Marc-André Hamelin

Dive into the intricate world of classical piano mastery with Marc-André Hamelin's captivating album, "Reger: Piano Concerto – R. Strauss: Burleske." Released on April 1, 2011, under the esteemed Hyperion label, this album is a testament to Hamelin's virtuosity and his ability to tackle some of the most complex and demanding works in the classical repertoire.

The album features two monumental pieces: Max Reger's Piano Concerto in F Minor, Op. 114, and Richard Strauss's Burleske in D Minor, TrV 145. Reger's concerto, known for its dense harmonies and formidable technical challenges, is brought to life with Hamelin's unparalleled precision and expressive depth. The three movements—Allegro moderato, Largo con gran espressione, and Allegretto con spirito—showcase Hamelin's ability to navigate the concerto's intricate passages with both power and sensitivity.

Complementing Reger's concerto is Strauss's Burleske, a whimsical and energetic piece that pays homage to Brahms's B flat major Piano Concerto. Hamelin's performance is marked by a playful yet refined touch, capturing the essence of Strauss's unique blend of humor and sophistication.

Accompanying Hamelin is the Rundfunk-Sinfonieorchester Berlin, conducted by Ilan Volkov. Their collaboration results in a performance that is both technically impeccable and emotionally resonant. The album's duration of 56 minutes offers a concise yet comprehensive exploration of these two significant works, making it a valuable addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection.

With a 4.2 out of 5-star rating, this album has been praised for its exceptional performances and high production quality. Whether you are a seasoned classical music aficionado or a newcomer to the genre, Marc-André Hamelin's interpretation of Reger and Strauss is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Marc-André Hamelin is a Canadian virtuoso pianist and composer celebrated globally for his extraordinary blend of technical brilliance and deep musical insight. Born in Montréal, Hamelin's journey began at the Vincent d'Indy School of Music and continued at Temple University in Philadelphia. With 11 Grammy Award nominations to his name, he stands as one of the most acclaimed pianists of our time. Hamelin's repertoire spans an astonishing range, from the classics to the contemporary, and his performances are renowned for their interpretative depth and unparalleled virtuosity. Beyond his concert performances, Hamelin is also a prolific composer, with many of his works available through Peters and the Sorabji Archive. His recordings, exclusively for Hyperion Records, showcase his versatility and mastery, making him a must-watch for any classical music enthusiast.