Ferguson / Gerhard / Rowley / Darnton: Piano Concertos

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of British classical music with Peter Donohoe's remarkable album, "Ferguson / Gerhard / Rowley / Darnton: Piano Concertos." Released in 2005 under the prestigious Naxos label, this collection showcases the virtuosic talents of pianist Peter Donohoe, who also takes on the role of conductor for the Northern Sinfonia. The album spans a rich duration of 1 hour and 18 minutes, featuring a diverse array of compositions that highlight the unique voices of four distinct composers: Alec Rowley, Christian Darnton, Howard Ferguson, and Roberto Gerhard.

The album opens with Howard Ferguson's Concerto No. 1 in D Major for Piano, Strings, and Percussion, Op. 49, a piece that immediately draws the audience in with its rhythmic energy and intricate interplay between the piano and the orchestra. The second movement, "Andante naif," offers a moment of serene reflection, while the final movement, "Allegro alla Burlesco," brings the concerto to a lively and playful close.

Following Ferguson's work, the album presents Christian Darnton's Piano Concertino in C Major, a charming and delicate composition that showcases the piano's lyrical qualities. The three movements of this concertino—"Allegro molto moderato," "Andante," and "Presto con disinvoltura"—each offer a different facet of Darnton's musical style, from the moderate tempo of the first movement to the lively and carefree spirit of the final movement.

Roberto Gerhard's Piano Concerto is another highlight of the album. This three-movement work, titled "Tiento: Allegro," "Diferencias: Adagio," and "Folia: Molto mosso," demonstrates Gerhard's innovative approach to composition, blending traditional forms with modern techniques. The adagio movement, in particular, is a standout, offering a deeply expressive and introspective moment in the album.

Finally, the album concludes with Alec Rowley's Piano Concerto, Op. 12. This three-movement work, featuring "Allegro," "Theme and Variations," and "Allegro gioviale," showcases Rowley's ability to craft engaging and dynamic compositions. The theme and variations movement is particularly noteworthy, offering a rich tapestry of musical ideas that keep the audience engaged from start to finish.

Throughout the album, Peter Donohoe's masterful playing and conducting bring these compositions to life, highlighting the unique qualities of each piece and offering a rich and varied listening experience. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.