Dvorak: Piano Concerto; Mazurek; Rondo

Czech Chamber Philharmonic Orchestra Pardubice, Pierdomenico, Leonardo

PCL 10272

Antonín Dvořák (1841-1904) wrote three concertos for solo instrument and orchestra: for violin, cello and piano. The Piano Concerto, though a masterwork in its genre, is the least performed of these.

The concerto unfolds in three movements, each possessing distinct characteristics. The opening movement bursts with energy, introducing the piano and orchestra in a lively dialogue, punctuated by lush melodies and rhythmic motifs. The second movement takes a more introspective turn, offering a lyrical and deeply emotional experience, as the piano and orchestra engage in a heartfelt musical conversation. The final movement exudes exuberance, as Dvořák expertly weaves Slavic folk elements into the fabric of the music, infusing it with dance-like rhythms and vibrant melodies.

Also included on this new recording are the Rondo for Cello and Orchestra in G Minor and the Mazurek for Violin and Orchestra Op. 49.

This fourth recording for Piano Classics by young Italian pianist Leonardo Pierdomenico firmly establishes his position as one of the most promising artists of his generation. His first album with works by Franz Liszt (PCL10151) received rave reviews from the international press, among which the prestigious Gramophone Critic’s Choice: “His highly developed technique and cultivated sound, both adaptable to a variety of affects, are wedded to those twin essentials for artistic Liszt-playing: imagination combined with thoroughgoing, scrupulous musicality.” His second album with the Beethoven/Liszt Symphony 5 and the Beethoven/Alkan 3rd Piano Concerto (PCL10224) made the critic of Fanfare declare Pierdomenico as “the Carlos Kleiber of the piano”.

The excellent Czech Chamber Philharmonic Orchestra Pardubice under conductor Vahan Mardirossian provide idiomatic and enthusiastic orchestral support.

Works:

•Dvorak: Mazurek for violin and piano, Op. 49 (B89)
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•Dvorak: Piano Concerto in G minor, Op. 33
•Dvorak: Rondo in G minor for cello & orchestra, Op. 94, B. 181

CD x 1

Piano Classics

2023-11-02

5029365102728