Lauri Väinmaa - Estonian Piano Concertos / Lemba - Tubin - Sumera (LP)

Dive into the rich tapestry of Estonian classical music with "Estonian Piano Concertos / Lemba - Tubin - Sumera" by Lauri Väinmaa. Released in 2011 under Fazer Records/Finlandia, this album is a captivating exploration of minimalist compositions, showcasing the brilliance of three prominent Estonian composers: Lemba, Tubin, and Sumera.

The album features the Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Arvo Volmer, accompanying the virtuoso pianist Lauri Väinmaa. The centerpiece is Lemba's Concerto No.1 in G major for Piano and Symphony Orchestra, a three-movement masterpiece that unfolds with grace and intensity. The first movement, "Allegro moderato," sets a lively yet measured pace, while the second movement, "Andante con espressione," offers a moment of reflective beauty. The final movement, "Allegro," brings the concerto to a thrilling close.

In addition to Lemba's concerto, the album includes Tubin's "Concertino for Piano and Orchestra," a concise yet powerful work, and Sumera's Piano Concerto, divided into two movements: "Come cercando un tempo" and "Incantando." Each piece is a testament to the composers' unique voices and the pianist's exceptional skill.

With a total runtime of 1 hour and 4 minutes, this album is a must-listen for fans of classical and minimalist music. Lauri Väinmaa's impeccable performance, coupled with the superb playing of the Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, makes this a standout release in the world of contemporary classical music.