Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Wilhelm Stenhammar's "Piano Concerto No. 2 / Chitra Suite," a remarkable album that showcases the Swedish composer's mastery of romantic and late-romantic musical styles. This album, released on August 31, 1990, under the BIS label, is a testament to Stenhammar's ability to blend technical virtuosity with deep emotional expression.
The album opens with Stenhammar's Piano Concerto No. 2 in D Minor, Op. 23, a four-movement work that highlights the composer's skill in orchestration and his affinity for the piano. The concerto is performed by the renowned Cristina Ortiz, accompanied by the Göteborgs Symfoniker under the direction of Neeme Järvi. Ortiz's playing is both powerful and nuanced, bringing out the full range of emotions in Stenhammar's music.
The second half of the album features the Chitra Suite, Op. 43, a work inspired by the Indian love story "Chitra." This suite, arranged by H. Rosenberg, is a journey through a variety of moods and tempos, from the passionate "Allegro appassionato" to the serene "Andante sostenuto." The Göteborgs Symfoniker's performance is impeccable, capturing the essence of each movement with precision and sensitivity.
With a total duration of 51 minutes, this album is a perfect introduction to Stenhammar's music. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Piano Concerto No. 2 / Chitra Suite" is sure to leave a lasting impression. Don't miss the chance to experience the brilliance of Wilhelm Stenhammar and the Göteborgs Symfoniker.