Rachmaninov - Abbey Simon, St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, Leonard Slatkin – Piano Concerto No. 2 / Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini

Rachmaninov – Piano Concerto No. 2 / Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini

Rachmaninov's Piano Concerto No. 2 and Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini bring together two of the Russian composer's most celebrated works for piano and orchestra. This recording features acclaimed pianist Abbey Simon with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Leonard Slatkin, offering a compelling performance of music renowned for its sweeping melodies, dramatic contrasts and extraordinary demands on the soloist.

Composed between 1900 and 1901, the Piano Concerto No. 2 in C Minor, Op. 18 is arguably Rachmaninov's best-known concerto and one of the defining works of the late Romantic piano repertoire. Following a difficult period in the composer's life, its completion marked a major artistic triumph and helped restore Rachmaninov's confidence as a composer.

The concerto begins with the unmistakable Moderato, opening with the famous sequence of piano chords before the orchestra introduces the sweeping principal theme. The expansive Adagio Sostenuto follows, featuring one of Rachmaninov's most beautiful and recognisable melodies, before the energetic Allegro Scherzando brings the work to its dramatic conclusion.

The second work, Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini, Op. 43, was composed in 1934 and consists of 24 variations on the famous theme from Paganini's Caprice No. 24. Although technically a single continuous composition, Rachmaninov uses the variations to create constantly changing moods, from virtuosic brilliance to lyrical reflection and dark, dramatic passages.

Among its most famous moments is Variation XVIII, one of the great romantic melodies of the classical repertoire. Rachmaninov famously turns Paganini's theme upside down to create this extraordinarily lyrical passage, which has subsequently appeared in films, television and popular culture.

Abbey Simon was particularly associated with the Romantic piano repertoire, and his playing brings the required combination of technical control, expressive phrasing and musical sensitivity to these demanding works. Leonard Slatkin's direction with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra provides the broad orchestral framework necessary for Rachmaninov's richly layered writing.

The recording is an excellent choice for listeners exploring Rachmaninov on vinyl, Russian Romantic music and great piano concertos. It combines two works that demonstrate very different sides of the composer: the emotional sweep and intimate lyricism of the Second Piano Concerto alongside the dazzling variation form and orchestral colour of the Rhapsody.

For collectors of classical vinyl, Rachmaninov, piano concertos and Romantic orchestral music, this release is an attractive addition to any collection. Fans of Tchaikovsky, Chopin, Liszt and Brahms will also appreciate Rachmaninov's combination of virtuosic piano writing and unforgettable melodic themes.

A superb pairing of two of Rachmaninov's most enduring compositions, this recording showcases the passion, virtuosity and sweeping Romantic melodies that have made his music so popular with classical listeners worldwide.

Tracklist

1. Piano Concerto No. 2 – 1st Movement: Moderato – 9:58
2. Piano Concerto No. 2 – 2nd Movement: Adagio Sostenuto – 10:34
3. Piano Concerto No. 2 – 3rd Movement: Allegro Scherzando – 11:28
4. Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini – 23:26