Saint-Saëns: Piano Concertos, Vol. 2

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Camille Saint-Saëns with his "Piano Concertos, Vol. 2," a stunning collection of orchestral masterpieces released on Naxos. This album, recorded with the renowned BBC Philharmonic Orchestra under the skilled direction of Edward Gardner, showcases the brilliance of Saint-Saëns' compositional prowess and the virtuosity of pianist Louis Lortie.

The centerpiece of this album is the Piano Concerto No. 3 in E-Flat Major, Op. 29, R. 191, a work that has often been overshadowed by its predecessors but is no less deserving of acclaim. The concerto is presented in three distinct movements: the lively "Moderato assai," the serene "Andante," and the energetic "Allegro non troppo." Each movement is a testament to Saint-Saëns' ability to blend technical complexity with melodic beauty.

In addition to the concerto, the album features three other notable works by Saint-Saëns: the evocative "Rhapsodie d'Auvergne, Op. 73, R. 201," the vibrant "Africa, Op. 89, R. 204," and the charming "Wedding Cake, Op. 76, R. 124." These pieces showcase the composer's versatility and his ability to evoke a wide range of emotions through his music.

With a total runtime of 57 minutes, this album is a compact yet comprehensive exploration of Saint-Saëns' orchestral works. The recording quality is exceptional, capturing the richness and depth of the orchestral sound with remarkable clarity. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to delight and inspire.