Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Nikolai Medtner's piano concertos with the album "Medtner: Piano Concerto Nos. 1-3." Released in 2001 by the BIS label, this collection showcases the brilliance of Medtner's compositions, performed with exquisite skill by Ilya Stupel, accompanied by the Artur Rubinstein Philharmonic Orchestra under the direction of Geoffrey Douglas Madge.
Spanning a total of 2 hours and 32 minutes, this album features three complete piano concertos, each a testament to Medtner's mastery of the form. The Piano Concerto No. 1 in C Minor, Op. 33, opens with a powerful Allegro, followed by a serene Dolce tranquillo, and culminates in a thrilling Tempo risoluto. The Piano Concerto No. 2 in C Minor, Op. 50, offers a dynamic Toccata, a lyrical Romanza, and a lively Divertissement. The Piano Concerto No. 3 in E Minor, Op. 60, "Ballade," includes a majestic Con moto largamento, a reflective Interludium, and a spirited Finale.
In addition to the concertos, the album also includes Medtner's Piano Sonata in G Minor and selections from his Forgotten Melodies, Op. 38, providing a comprehensive exploration of his piano works. The album is a must-listen for fans of classical piano music, offering a rich and varied listening experience that highlights Medtner's unique voice in the classical repertoire.