Somervell: Highland Concerto – Cowen: Concertstück

Immerse yourself in the romantic allure of the piano concerto with this captivating album featuring the works of Arthur Somervell and Frederic Hymen Cowen. Released on August 30, 2011, by Hyperion, this album showcases the exquisite talents of pianist Martin Roscoe and the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Martyn Brabbins.

The centerpiece of the album is Arthur Somervell's Piano Concerto in A Minor, "Highland," a work composed in 1921 for the Scottish pianist Jessie Munro. This concerto, Somervell's second for piano and orchestra, is a testament to his mastery of the genre, following his earlier Normandy Variations. The "Highland" Concerto is a rich tapestry of melodies and orchestral colors that evoke the rugged beauty of the Scottish landscape.

Complementing Somervell's work is Frederic Cowen's Concertstück, composed in 1897 for the virtuoso Paderewski. This piece is renowned for its vibrant orchestral colors and demanding piano writing, showcasing Cowen's skill as a composer and his deep understanding of the instrument.

The album also includes Somervell's Normandy "Symphonic Variations," a work that further highlights his ability to blend lyrical melodies with orchestral richness. This collection of pieces offers a comprehensive overview of Somervell's contributions to the romantic piano concerto repertoire, making it an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection.

With a total duration of 1 hour and 8 minutes, this album is a delightful journey through the romantic era, featuring some of the most beautiful and technically demanding piano concertos of the time. Whether you are a fan of Arthur Somervell or discovering his work for the first time, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.