Description

Dmitri Shostakovich - Piano Concertos 1 & 2; Hamlet Suite Op. 32a - Valentina Igoshina, Deutsche Kammerakademie Neuss, Lavard Skou-Larsen / cpo Audio CD 2012 / 777 750-2

UPC 761203775026

Product Details:

Label: cpo – 777 750-2
Format: CD
Country: Germany
Released: 2012
Genre: Classical
Style: Orchestral, 20th Century

Overview

This captivating album offers a comprehensive exploration of Dmitri Shostakovich’s work for piano and orchestra, featuring Piano Concertos Nos. 1 and 2, alongside the Hamlet Suite Op. 32a. Performed by renowned pianist Valentina Igoshina, the Deutsche Kammerakademie Neuss, and conducted by Lavard Skou-Larsen, this recording highlights Shostakovich's bold musical language and innovative orchestration. The Piano Concerto No. 1, with its lively interplay between piano, trumpet, and strings, contrasts beautifully with the more introspective Piano Concerto No. 2. The Hamlet Suite, taken from Shostakovich's incidental music for Shakespeare's Hamlet, reveals the composer’s skill at evoking dramatic atmosphere through music. This album is a must-have for Shostakovich enthusiasts and classical music collectors.

Interesting Facts

Shostakovich’s Piano Concerto No. 1 Op. 35, composed in 1933, is one of the most beloved works in the piano concerto repertoire. The piece is known for its unique orchestration, featuring a prominent trumpet part, which is rare in piano concertos.
The Hamlet Suite Op. 32a was originally written in 1932 for the stage production of Shakespeare's Hamlet. The music captures the essence of the play's dramatic tension, with the suite incorporating themes of mourning, tension, and the inner turmoil of the characters.
Piano Concerto No. 2 Op. 102, composed in 1957, is a more lyrical and lighter work compared to the first concerto, showcasing Shostakovich's versatility as a composer. It is often considered a more approachable piece, featuring joyful and dance-like movements.
The album’s performers, Valentina Igoshina and Deutsche Kammerakademie Neuss, offer a compelling interpretation that respects Shostakovich’s intricate style, blending precision with emotional depth.

Track Listing

Concerto For Piano, Trumpet & String Orchestra No. 1 Op. 35 in C Minor (23:19)
- Allegretto
- Lento
- Moderato
- Allegro Con Brio
Suite from the Incidental Music "Hamlet" Op. 32a Original Version 1932 (24:19)
- Einleitung und Nächtlichen Streife
- Trauermarsch
- Tusch und Tanzmusik
- Jagd
- Pantomime und Schauspieler
- Umzug
- Musikalische Pantomime
- Gastmahl
- Liedchen der Ophelia
- Wiegenlied
- Requiem
- Turnier
- Marsch des Fortinbras
Piano Concerto No. 2 Op. 102 in F Major (22:31)
- Allegro
- Andante
- Allegro