Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Wilhelm Stenhammar's piano concertos with this remarkable album, featuring his Piano Concertos Nos. 1 and 2. Stenhammar, a Swedish composer and pianist, showcases his virtuosity and musical depth in these two concertos, composed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The album opens with the Piano Concerto No. 2 in D Minor, Op. 23, a powerful and dramatic work that highlights Stenhammar's ability to blend romanticism with a distinctly personal touch. The concerto's four movements, from the intense Moderato to the lively Molto vivace, the serene Adagio, and the concluding Tempo moderato, offer a rich tapestry of emotions and musical colors.
Following this, the Piano Concerto No. 1 in B-Flat Major, Op. 1, demonstrates Stenhammar's early mastery of the concerto form. The concerto's four movements, starting with the majestic Molto moderato e maestoso, the playful Vivacissimo, the contemplative Andante, and the energetic Allegro commodo, showcase the composer's ability to craft engaging and varied musical narratives.
Recorded by the Göteborgs Symfoniker and released by Naxos, this album captures the essence of Stenhammar's piano concertos with clarity and precision. The performances are brought to life by a talented ensemble, making this a compelling addition to any classical music collection. With a total duration of 1 hour and 7 minutes, this album is a testament to Stenhammar's enduring legacy and his significant contributions to the romantic piano concerto repertoire.