Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of George Frideric Handel's "Händel: 6 Piano Concertos, Op. 4," a masterful collection of Baroque compositions that showcases the composer's unparalleled genius. Released on October 29, 2013, under the CPO label, this album is a testament to Handel's enduring influence in the classical, choral, and opera genres.
The album features six meticulously arranged piano concertos, originally composed for the organ, now brilliantly adapted for piano and orchestra. Each concerto is a journey through Handel's distinctive style, characterized by its rich harmonies, intricate melodies, and dynamic contrasts. The concertos are presented in their entirety, offering a comprehensive exploration of Handel's Op. 4.
From the solemn grandeur of the opening Larghetto in Concerto No. 1 to the lively Allegro in Concerto No. 6, the album spans a diverse range of emotions and moods. The Adagios and Andantes provide moments of serene reflection, while the Allegros and Prestos ignite with energetic vigor. The inclusion of a Gavotte in Concerto No. 3 adds a touch of dance-like charm, showcasing Handel's versatility.
The duration of the album is a concise yet fulfilling 1 hour and 7 minutes, making it an ideal choice for both casual listeners and devoted fans of classical music. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of Handel's work or a newcomer to his compositions, this album offers a captivating introduction to his piano concertos. Experience the brilliance of Handel's Op. 4 and let the timeless beauty of his music resonate with you.
(C) 2013 CPO(P) 2013 CPO
Tracks
Organ Concerto No. 1 in G Minor, Op. 4, No. 1, HWV 289: I. Larghetto, e staccato (arr. for piano and orchestra)George Frideric Handel, Matthias Kirschnereit, German Chamber Academy Neuss, Lavard Skou Larsen
Organ Concerto No. 1 in G Minor, Op. 4, No. 1, HWV 289: II. Allegro (arr. for piano and orchestra)George Frideric Handel, Matthias Kirschnereit, German Chamber Academy Neuss, Lavard Skou Larsen
Organ Concerto No. 1 in G Minor, Op. 4, No. 1, HWV 289: III. Adagio (arr. for piano and orchestra)George Frideric Handel, Matthias Kirschnereit, German Chamber Academy Neuss, Lavard Skou Larsen
Organ Concerto No. 1 in G Minor, Op. 4, No. 1, HWV 289: IV. Andante (arr. for piano and orchestra)George Frideric Handel, Matthias Kirschnereit, German Chamber Academy Neuss, Lavard Skou Larsen
Organ Concerto No. 2 in B-Flat Major, Op. 4, No. 2, HWV 290: I. Sinfonia. A tempo ordinario, e staccato (arr. for piano and orchestra)George Frideric Handel, Matthias Kirschnereit, German Chamber Academy Neuss, Lavard Skou Larsen
Organ Concerto No. 2 in B-Flat Major, Op. 4, No. 2, HWV 290: II. Allegro (arr. for piano and orchestra)George Frideric Handel, Matthias Kirschnereit, German Chamber Academy Neuss, Lavard Skou Larsen
Organ Concerto No. 2 in B-Flat Major, Op. 4, No. 2, HWV 290: III. Adagio, e staccato (arr. for piano and orchestra)George Frideric Handel, Matthias Kirschnereit, German Chamber Academy Neuss, Lavard Skou Larsen
Organ Concerto No. 2 in B-Flat Major, Op. 4, No. 2, HWV 290: IV. Allegro, ma non presto (arr. for piano and orchestra)George Frideric Handel, Matthias Kirschnereit, German Chamber Academy Neuss, Lavard Skou Larsen
Organ Concerto No. 3 in G Minor, Op. 4, No. 3, HWV 291: I. Adagio (arr. for piano and orchestra)George Frideric Handel, Matthias Kirschnereit, German Chamber Academy Neuss, Lavard Skou Larsen
Organ Concerto No. 3 in G Minor, Op. 4, No. 3, HWV 291: II. Allegro (arr. for piano and orchestra)George Frideric Handel, Matthias Kirschnereit, German Chamber Academy Neuss, Lavard Skou Larsen
Organ Concerto No. 3 in G Minor, Op. 4, No. 3, HWV 291: III. Adagio (arr. for piano and orchestra)George Frideric Handel, Matthias Kirschnereit, German Chamber Academy Neuss, Lavard Skou Larsen
Organ Concerto No. 3 in G Minor, Op. 4, No. 3, HWV 291: IV. Gavotte. Allegro (arr. for piano and orchestra)George Frideric Handel, Matthias Kirschnereit, German Chamber Academy Neuss, Lavard Skou Larsen
Organ Concerto No. 4 in F Major, Op. 4, No. 4, HWV 292: I. Allegro (arr. for piano and orchestra)George Frideric Handel, Matthias Kirschnereit, German Chamber Academy Neuss, Lavard Skou Larsen
Organ Concerto No. 4 in F Major, Op. 4, No. 4, HWV 292: II. Andante (arr. for piano and orchestra)George Frideric Handel, Matthias Kirschnereit, German Chamber Academy Neuss, Lavard Skou Larsen
Organ Concerto No. 4 in F Major, Op. 4, No. 4, HWV 292: III. Adagio (arr. for piano and orchestra)George Frideric Handel, Matthias Kirschnereit, German Chamber Academy Neuss, Lavard Skou Larsen
Organ Concerto No. 4 in F Major, Op. 4, No. 4, HWV 292: IV. Allegro (arr. for piano and orchestra)George Frideric Handel, Matthias Kirschnereit, German Chamber Academy Neuss, Lavard Skou Larsen
Organ Concerto No. 5 in F Major, Op. 4, No. 5, HWV 293: I. Larghetto (arr. for piano and orchestra)George Frideric Handel, Matthias Kirschnereit, German Chamber Academy Neuss, Lavard Skou Larsen
Organ Concerto No. 5 in F Major, Op. 4, No. 5, HWV 293: II. Allegro (arr. for piano and orchestra)George Frideric Handel, Matthias Kirschnereit, German Chamber Academy Neuss, Lavard Skou Larsen
Organ Concerto No. 5 in F Major, Op. 4, No. 5, HWV 293: III. Alla Siciliana (arr. for piano and orchestra)George Frideric Handel, Matthias Kirschnereit, German Chamber Academy Neuss, Lavard Skou Larsen
Organ Concerto No. 5 in F Major, Op. 4, No. 5, HWV 293: IV. Presto (arr. for piano and orchestra)George Frideric Handel, Matthias Kirschnereit, German Chamber Academy Neuss, Lavard Skou Larsen
Organ Concerto No. 6 in B-Flat Major, Op. 4, No. 6, HWV 294: I. Andante - Allegro (arr. for piano and orchestra)George Frideric Handel, Matthias Kirschnereit, German Chamber Academy Neuss, Lavard Skou Larsen
Organ Concerto No. 6 in B-Flat Major, Op. 4, No. 6, HWV 294: II. Larghetto (arr. for piano and orchestra)George Frideric Handel, Matthias Kirschnereit, German Chamber Academy Neuss, Lavard Skou Larsen
Organ Concerto No. 6 in B-Flat Major, Op. 4, No. 6, HWV 294: III. Allegro moderato (arr. for piano and orchestra)George Frideric Handel, Matthias Kirschnereit, German Chamber Academy Neuss, Lavard Skou Larsen