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Sergei RACHMANINOV (1873-1943) Piano Concerto No 1 in F sharp minor, 'Fantasie-Tableaux'; Op.5* Sequeira Costa and Artur Pizarro* (pianos) Royal Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Christopher Seaman IMP Classics 30367 02842

 


Crotchet




I have always had a sneaking regard for Rachmaninov's 1st Piano Concerto and I sway in my affections between this and the third Concerto. Although the Concerto was drastically revised in 1917 shortly before Rachmaninov left Russia for ever, it is astonishingly assured and mature for a student work. It brims with wonderful melodies; who, for instance, could resist the heart-on-sleeve emotion of the lovely central Andante. This is a sterling performance delivered by veteran Sequeira Costa whose career has now spanned four decades, yet his reading has the ardour and poetry of youth. Christopher Seaman delivers a powerful yet sensitive accompaniment.

Costa is joined by Artur Pizarro in a splendid performance of Rachmaninov's 'Etudes Tableaux', dedicated to the memory of Tchaikovsky who had just died, when the work was completed in 1893. The music is again very tuneful, colourful and evocative. After a Barcarolle, the second movement, 'The Night', is inspired by Byron's poetry and a nightingale is heard. In the third movement, 'Tears', heavy bells toll mournfully and the finale, 'Easter Festival', is based on words by Alexei Khomyokov and chronicles the celebrations beloved of the Russian people.

In the control room there is Brian Culverhouse as producer and balance engineer ensuring tip-top sound. It is nice to see him credited on a CD again.

Reviewer

Ian Lace

Reviewer

Ian Lace

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