Britten, Milhaud, Finzi and R. Strauss - Music for Piano and Orchestra

Joshua Pierce presents a captivating journey through the works of four distinguished composers in his album "Britten, Milhaud, Finzi and R. Strauss - Music for Piano and Orchestra." Released on July 5, 2021, under the MSR Classics label, this album is a testament to Pierce's virtuosity and versatility, spanning the genres of minimalism and avant-garde.

The album opens with Benjamin Britten's "Young Apollo for Piano and String Orchestra, Op. 16," a piece that showcases Pierce's delicate touch and nuanced interpretation. The centerpiece of the album is Darius Milhaud's "Le Carnaval d’Aix Fantaisie pour Piano et Orchestre, Op. 83b," a vibrant and colorful suite that Pierce brings to life with his dynamic playing and keen sense of rhythm.

Gerald Finzi's "Eclogue for Piano and String Orchestra, Op. 10" offers a moment of introspection, while the orchestral suite from Darius Milhaud's "Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme, Op. 60" is a playful and witty conclusion to the album. Throughout, Pierce's playing is characterized by its precision, clarity, and expressive depth, making this album a must-listen for fans of classical music.

With a duration of just under an hour and nine minutes, this album is a compact yet comprehensive exploration of the piano and orchestra repertoire. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Joshua Pierce's "Britten, Milhaud, Finzi and R. Strauss - Music for Piano and Orchestra" is sure to delight and inspire.