Immerse yourself in the captivating world of classical piano with John Ogdon's remarkable album, featuring works by Shostakovich and Bartók. Released on January 1, 2001, under Warner Classics, this album showcases Ogdon's extraordinary talent and versatility, offering a compelling journey through two distinct yet equally captivating piano concertos and a unique sonata for two pianos and percussion.
The album opens with Shostakovich's Piano Concerto No. 2 in F Major, Op. 102, a piece that highlights Ogdon's ability to convey both the playful and poignant aspects of Shostakovich's composition. The concerto's three movements—Allegro, Andante, and Allegro—demonstrate Ogdon's technical prowess and emotional depth, making this a standout performance.
The second half of the album is dedicated to Bartók's works, beginning with his Piano Concerto No. 3 in E Major, Sz. 119. This concerto, with its intricate rhythms and rich harmonies, is a testament to Ogdon's mastery of Bartók's complex style. The three movements—Allegretto, Adagio religioso, and Allegro vivace—offer a thrilling exploration of Bartók's musical genius.
The album concludes with Bartók's Sonata for Two Pianos and Percussion, Sz. 110, a piece that showcases Ogdon's collaborative skills and his ability to bring out the unique textures and timbres of this lesser-known work. The sonata's three movements—Assai lento - Allegro molto, Lento ma non troppo, and Allegro non troppo—provide a fascinating contrast to the concertos, rounding off the album with a sense of completeness and satisfaction.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 11 minutes, this album is a must-listen for any classical music enthusiast. John Ogdon's performances are nothing short of breathtaking, making this a collection of performances that will leave a lasting impression.
Vinylscout