Joshua Pierce presents a captivating exploration of Romantic and post-Romantic repertoire in his latest album, "Pierce Plays Brahms: Piano Concerto No. 2 in B-Flat; Franck: Les Djinns – Symphonic Poem; Weber: Concertstück in F Minor." Set for release on April 1, 2024, via MSR Classics, this album showcases Pierce's virtuosity and interpretive depth across a program that blends minimalist and avant-garde influences.
The centerpiece of the album is Johannes Brahms' Piano Concerto No. 2 in B-Flat Major, Op. 83, a monumental work that Pierce dissects with precision and passion. The concerto's four movements—ranging from the expansive "Allegro non troppo" to the delicate "Allegretto grazioso"—reveal Pierce's ability to navigate Brahms' complex emotional landscapes with both technical brilliance and musical insight.
Complementing Brahms' concerto are two lesser-known yet equally compelling works: César Franck's "Les Djinns – Symphonic Poem for Piano and Orchestra" and Carl Maria von Weber's "Concertstück in F Minor, Op. 79." These pieces allow Pierce to showcase his versatility, as he delves into the dramatic intensity of Franck's symphonic poem and the playful virtuosity of Weber's concert piece.
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 13 minutes, this album offers a rich and varied listening experience. Pierce's performances are marked by a keen sense of phrasing, a deep understanding of the score, and a willingness to take risks, making this a standout release for fans of classical piano music. Whether you're a seasoned concertgoer or a casual listener, Joshua Pierce's latest album promises to be a rewarding journey through some of the most evocative and challenging works in the piano concerto repertoire.
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