Scharwenka: Complete Piano Concertos

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Xaver Scharwenka's piano concertos with the comprehensive collection "Scharwenka: Complete Piano Concertos." Released in 2014 by Chandos, this double-CD set brings together all four of Scharwenka's piano concertos, each a testament to the composer's virtuosity and emotional depth. Spanning over two hours and twenty minutes, this album is a journey through the evolution of Scharwenka's compositional style, from the dramatic intensity of the First Piano Concerto in B-flat minor, Op. 32, to the intricate nuances of the Fourth Piano Concerto, Op. 82.

The First Piano Concerto, composed in 1876, is a work of remarkable variety, with its 'roller-coaster' first movement that swiftly transitions through a range of expressive worlds. The Second Concerto, Op. 56, showcases Scharwenka's ability to blend technical brilliance with lyrical beauty, while the Third Concerto, Op. 80, offers a more introspective and contemplative mood. The Fourth Concerto, Op. 82, concludes the collection with a powerful and dramatic finale, demonstrating Scharwenka's mastery of the concerto form.

Performed by the Estonian National Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Neeme Järvi, with Alexander Markovich at the piano, this recording captures the full grandeur and subtlety of Scharwenka's compositions. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience, showcasing the brilliance of one of the 19th century's most accomplished pianists and composers.