Shostakovich, D.: Piano Concertos Nos. 1 and 2 / 24 Preludes

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Dmitri Shostakovich with this remarkable album, featuring his Piano Concertos Nos. 1 and 2, alongside a selection of his 24 Preludes, Op. 34. This collection showcases Shostakovich's extraordinary ability to blend technical brilliance with profound emotional depth, offering a rich and varied listening experience.

The album opens with the Piano Concerto No. 2 in F Major, Op. 102, a work that sparkles with wit and charm, followed by the more introspective and lyrical Piano Concerto No. 1 in C Minor, Op. 35. These concertos are interspersed with a selection of Shostakovich's 24 Preludes, Op. 34, each arranged for orchestra by Rudolf Barshai. These preludes are renowned for their mercurial brilliance, stunning articulation, and an astonishing range of color and dynamics, providing a fascinating glimpse into Shostakovich's musical versatility.

Recorded in 2007 and released under the Delos label, this album is a testament to Shostakovich's enduring appeal and his significant contribution to the classical music canon. The performances are brought to life by the Boston Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Andris Nelsons, with Yuja Wang as the soloist, ensuring a high level of musicality and precision. With a total duration of 53 minutes, this album is a compact yet comprehensive exploration of Shostakovich's piano works, making it an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection.