Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Thomas Pitfield's "Piano Concertos Nos. 1 and 2 / Xylophone Sonata," a 2005 release from Naxos that showcases the composer's impressive yet under-recorded musical genius. This album is a treasure trove of Pitfield's most substantial works, featuring two full piano concertos and a xylophone sonata that highlight his unique compositional style and innovative approach to music.
The album opens with the Piano Concerto No. 1 in E Minor, a powerful and dramatic work that sets the tone for the rest of the album. The concerto is followed by the Piano Concerto No. 2, "The Student," a more introspective and lyrical piece that showcases Pitfield's ability to craft beautiful melodies and intricate harmonies. The xylophone sonata, performed by the renowned Peter Donohoe, is a tour de force of technical virtuosity and musical expression, demonstrating Pitfield's mastery of the instrument and his ability to push the boundaries of what is possible on the xylophone.
Throughout the album, Pitfield's music is characterized by its rich harmonies, intricate rhythms, and evocative melodies. The album features a variety of moods and styles, from the dramatic and intense to the lyrical and introspective, making it a compelling and engaging listen from start to finish. Whether you're a fan of classical music or simply looking to explore new and exciting sounds, this album is sure to captivate and inspire you.
2005 Naxos2005 Naxos
Tracks
Piano Concerto No. 1 in E Minor: I. Allegro risolutoThomas Pitfield, Anthony Goldstone, Royal Northern College of Music Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Penny
Piano Concerto No. 1 in E Minor: II. GraveThomas Pitfield, Anthony Goldstone, Royal Northern College of Music Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Penny
Piano Concerto No. 1 in E Minor: III. Allegro gaiamenteThomas Pitfield, Anthony Goldstone, Royal Northern College of Music Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Penny
Piano Concerto No. 2, "the Student": I. Dance-PrologueThomas Pitfield, Peter Donohoe, Royal Northern College of Music Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Penny
Piano Concerto No. 2, "the Student": II. Interlude on White KeysThomas Pitfield, Peter Donohoe, Royal Northern College of Music Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Penny
Piano Concerto No. 2, "the Student": III. Air and Variations (the Oak and the Ash)Thomas Pitfield, Peter Donohoe, Royal Northern College of Music Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Penny
Piano Concerto No. 2, "the Student": IV. Variation 1Thomas Pitfield, Peter Donohoe, Royal Northern College of Music Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Penny
Piano Concerto No. 2, "the Student": V. Variation 2Thomas Pitfield, Peter Donohoe, Royal Northern College of Music Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Penny
Piano Concerto No. 2, "the Student": VI. Variation 3Thomas Pitfield, Peter Donohoe, Royal Northern College of Music Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Penny
Studies on an English Dance Tune: I. Bi-TonalThomas Pitfield, Peter Donohoe
Studies on an English Dance Tune: II. Seven-Eight, DorianThomas Pitfield, Peter Donohoe
Studies on an English Dance Tune: III. Cantabile MelodyThomas Pitfield, Peter Donohoe
Studies on an English Dance Tune: IV. Major-MinorThomas Pitfield, Peter Donohoe
Studies on an English Dance Tune: V. PhrygianThomas Pitfield, Peter Donohoe
Studies on an English Dance Tune: VI. Three-Two-ThreeThomas Pitfield, Peter Donohoe
Studies on an English Dance Tune: VII. OctavesThomas Pitfield, Peter Donohoe
AriettaThomas Pitfield, Peter Donohoe
Arietta and Finale: FinaleThomas Pitfield, Peter Donohoe
ToccataThomas Pitfield, Peter Donohoe
Xylophone Sonata: I. IntroductionThomas Pitfield, Peter Donohoe
Xylophone Sonata: II. IntermezzoThomas Pitfield, Peter Donohoe
Xylophone Sonata: III. ReelThomas Pitfield, Peter Donohoe
Xylophone Sonata: IV. ToccataThomas Pitfield, Peter Donohoe