Macdowell: The Two Piano Concerti

Dive into the captivating world of Edward MacDowell's piano concertos with the release of "Macdowell: The Two Piano Concerti." This album, remastered by Emkay Remasters and released on November 17, 2014, offers a compelling journey through two of MacDowell's most renowned works: Concerto No. 1 in A Minor, Op. 15, and Concerto No. 2 in D Minor, Op. 23. Spanning a total of 51 minutes, this collection showcases MacDowell's unique compositional style, blending romanticism with a distinctly American musical voice.

The first concerto opens with a powerful "Maestoso - Allegro con fuoco," setting the stage for a dynamic and passionate performance. The second movement, "Andante tranquillo," provides a serene contrast, while the concluding "Presto" brings the piece to a thrilling close. The second concerto begins with a tender "Larghetto calmato," followed by a lively "Presto giocoso," and culminates in a spirited "Largo - Molto allegro."

Edward MacDowell, an influential figure in American music, composed these concertos during his time in Germany, reflecting both European influences and his emerging American identity. This album is a testament to his enduring legacy and offers a rich listening experience for both classical music enthusiasts and those new to MacDowell's work.