Saint-Saëns: Piano Concertos Nos. 1, 2 & 4

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Camille Saint-Saëns with the album "Saint-Saëns: Piano Concertos Nos. 1, 2 & 4." Released on September 1, 2018, under the prestigious Chandos label, this classical masterpiece showcases the brilliance of Saint-Saëns' piano concertos. The album features the renowned Louis Lortie on piano, accompanied by the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Edward Gardner. Recorded at MediaCity UK in Salford on January 4, 2018, this collection spans a total of 1 hour and 10 minutes, offering a rich and diverse listening experience.

The album includes three of Saint-Saëns' most celebrated piano concertos, each divided into multiple movements. The Piano Concerto No. 1 in D Major, Op. 17, R. 185, begins with an Andante that gradually builds into an Allegro assai, followed by an Andante sostenuto quasi adagio and concluding with an Allegro con fuoco. The Piano Concerto No. 2 in G Minor, Op. 22, R. 190, starts with an Andante sostenuto, transitions into an Allegro scherzando, and culminates in a Presto. The Piano Concerto No. 4 in C Minor, Op. 44, R. 197, features a more complex structure with multiple movements, including an Allegro moderato, Andante, Allegro vivace - Andante, and a final Allegro.

This album is a testament to Saint-Saëns' compositions, offering a blend of technical virtuosity and emotional depth. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this collection provides a comprehensive exploration of Saint-Saëns' piano concertos, highlighting his unique contributions to the classical repertoire.