Dive into the captivating world of Alberto Ginastera's "Piano Concertos Nos. 1 & 2," a masterful collection of orchestral works that showcase the composer's unique blend of modernist techniques and Argentinian folk influences. Released in 2001 under the Naxos label, this album features two complete piano concertos performed by the talented Dora De Marinis and the Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra, with Julio Malaval at the piano.
The first concerto, Op. 28, is a dynamic and expressive piece that begins with the energetic "Cadenza e varianti" and continues through the whimsical "Scherzo allucinante," the serene "Adagissimo," and the exhilarating "Toccata concertata." The second concerto, Op. 39, offers a similarly engaging journey, starting with the intricate "32 variazioni sopra un accordo di Beethoven" and moving through the playful "Scherzo per la mano sinistra," the dreamy "Quasi una fantasia," the virtuosic "Cadenza," and concluding with the thrilling "Finale prestissimo."
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 6 minutes, this album is a testament to Ginastera's compositional prowess and the exceptional skill of the performers. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Piano Concertos Nos. 1 & 2" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that highlights the beauty and complexity of Ginastera's music.