Saint-Saëns: Piano Concerto No. 2 - Liszt: Piano Concerto No. 1

Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of classical piano with Shura Cherkassky's captivating album, "Saint-Saëns: Piano Concerto No. 2 - Liszt: Piano Concerto No. 1." Released on ICA Classics in September 2022, this exquisite collection showcases Cherkassky's masterful interpretations of two iconic piano concertos, along with a selection of shorter pieces that highlight his virtuosity and artistic depth.

The album opens with Camille Saint-Saëns' Piano Concerto No. 2 in G Minor, Op. 22, a work that beautifully balances lyricism and technical brilliance. Cherkassky's performance, accompanied by the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Sir Simon Rattle, is a testament to his ability to convey both the concerto's dramatic intensity and its moments of tender reflection. The second half of the album features Franz Liszt's monumental Piano Concerto No. 1 in E-Flat Major, S. 124, a work that demands not only extraordinary technical skill but also a profound understanding of its architectural complexity. Cherkassky's rendition, accompanied by the BBC Symphony Orchestra conducted by Norman del Mar, is a tour de force that reveals the concerto's structural ingenuity and emotional richness.

In addition to these two major works, the album includes Ludwig van Beethoven's Variations and Fugue in E-Flat Major, Op. 35, also known as the "Eroica Variations." This set of variations, originally written for piano solo, showcases Cherkassky's ability to bring out the individual character of each variation while maintaining a coherent overall structure. The album concludes with two shorter pieces: Saint-Saëns' Humoresque in G Major, Op. 14, No. 1, and Liszt's Waltz in E Minor, B.56. These encores provide a delightful contrast to the more substantial works that precede them, demonstrating Cherkassky's versatility and musical sensitivity.

Throughout the album, Cherkassky's playing is characterized by a rare combination of technical precision, expressive depth, and musical insight. His interpretations are informed by a deep understanding of the historical and stylistic context of each work, resulting in performances that are both authentic and fresh. The accompanying orchestras and conductors provide sensitive and supportive performances, enhancing the overall listening experience.

With a total duration of 1 hour and 14 minutes, this album offers a rich and rewarding journey through some of the most significant and beloved works in the piano concerto repertoire. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Shura Cherkassky's "Saint-Saëns: Piano Concerto No. 2 - Liszt: Piano Concerto No. 1" is sure to captivate and inspire.