Prokofiev: Piano Concertos Nos. 1-5

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Sergei Prokofiev with his complete collection of Piano Concertos Nos. 1-5, released on Chandos in 2014. This two-disc set showcases Prokofiev's remarkable compositional prowess and his unique contribution to the classical and neoclassical genres. Spanning a total duration of 2 hours and 1 minute, this album is a testament to Prokofiev's enduring legacy as one of the most influential composers of the 20th century.

The album features five piano concertos, each offering a distinct blend of technical brilliance and emotional depth. The First Piano Concerto, Op. 10, opens with a lively Allegro brioso, setting the stage for the intricate and dynamic performances that follow. The Second Piano Concerto, Op. 16, is notable for its Scherzo. Vivace movement, while the Third Piano Concerto, Op. 26, is often regarded as Prokofiev's most popular, with its bright and breezy Andante - Allegro - Più mosso - Andante structure. The Fourth Piano Concerto, Op. 53, showcases Prokofiev's ability to blend playful Vivace movements with more introspective Andante passages. The Fifth Piano Concerto, Op. 55, concludes the collection with a powerful and fiery Toccata. Allegro con fuoco.

Performances by renowned artists such as Vladimir Ashkenazy and Jean-Efflam Bavouzet bring these concertos to life, highlighting the intricate interplay between the piano and orchestra. The Moscow Philharmonic, under the direction of conductors like Vladimir Ashkenazy and Dmitri Kitayenko, provides a rich and nuanced backdrop to these virtuosic performances.

This album is a must-listen for fans of classical and neoclassical music, offering a comprehensive overview of Prokofiev's piano concertos. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast or a newcomer to Prokofiev's work, this collection is sure to captivate and inspire. Dive into the world of Sergei Prokofiev and experience the timeless beauty of his Piano Concertos Nos. 1-5.