Sunday 19 January 2014

An English Version of Rachmaninoff

Here is a fantastic recording of Richard Addinsell's Warsaw Concerto, which at one time was a frequent work in the concert roster and has now fallen into obscurity. I am still spellbound by its romanticism and pathos - sort of an English version of Rachmaninoff. Other than this well known concerto there is a bit more to be explored in Addinsell's oeuvre for the piano as well. Hope this will raise some awareness and attention to this half forgotten composer!

This recording is played by the great Leonard Pennario! Great tone control, lyricism, and well balanced - not showy - virtuosity. He worked in perfect harmony with the orchestra, dominating the solo parts of the work but never "out of sync" with the totality of the ensemble.

(YouTube video made from original LP from my own private collection.)





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