Simon Callaghan, a pianist renowned for his extensive repertoire and captivating performances, presents a compelling addition to the Hyperion Romantic Piano Concertos series with "Rheinberger & Scholz: Piano Concertos." Released in 2018, this album showcases Callaghan's virtuosity and deep understanding of the Romantic era's piano concertos, featuring works by Joseph Rheinberger and Bernhard Scholz.
The album opens with Rheinberger's Piano Concerto in A-flat Major, Op. 94, a three-movement piece that begins with a Moderato, followed by an Adagio patetico, and concludes with a lively Finale. Callaghan's interpretation is both delicate and powerful, highlighting the concerto's lyrical and technical demands. The second half of the album presents Scholz's Piano Concerto in B Major, Op. 57, a work that showcases Callaghan's ability to convey a wide range of emotions, from the Allegro moderato's energetic opening to the Andante's introspective beauty, culminating in a thrilling Allegro finale.
Complementing these concertos is Scholz's Capriccio for Piano and Orchestra, Op. 35, a dynamic and engaging piece that demonstrates Callaghan's versatility and mastery of the piano. Throughout the album, Callaghan is accompanied by the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Ben Gernon, providing a rich and nuanced orchestral backdrop to his performances.
With a total duration of 71 minutes, this album offers a comprehensive exploration of Rheinberger and Scholz's piano concertos, providing listeners with a deeper appreciation of these lesser-known works from the Romantic era. Simon Callaghan's exceptional artistry and the orchestral support make this album a standout addition to any classical music collection.
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