Ludwig van Beethoven's Piano Concertos Nos. 4 and 5, released in 2010 under the ECM New Series label, offers a captivating journey through the composer's nuanced and expressive piano concertos. This album features the renowned pianist Till Fellner, accompanied by the Orchestre Symphonique De Montréal under the direction of Kent Nagano.
The album opens with Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 4 in G Major, Op. 58, showcasing the composer's delicate and introspective side, a departure from his more bombastic works. The concerto's three movements—Allegro moderato, Andante con moto, and Rondo. Vivace—highlight Beethoven's mastery of form and emotion, with Fellner's sensitive playing bringing out the subtleties of each section.
The second half of the album is dedicated to Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 5 in E-Flat Major, Op. 73, known as the "Emperor." This monumental work is a testament to Beethoven's genius, blending grandeur and intimacy. The concerto's three movements—Allegro, Adagio un poco moto, and Rondo. Allegro ma non troppo—are performed with precision and passion, capturing the essence of Beethoven's vision.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 12 minutes, this album is a must-listen for classical music enthusiasts and anyone seeking to explore Beethoven's profound and enduring contributions to the piano concerto repertoire. The combination of Fellner's virtuosity, Nagano's insightful conducting, and the Orchestre Symphonique De Montréal's rich sound makes this recording a standout in the classical music catalog.