Alan Rawsthorne - Rawsthorne: Piano Concertos Nos. 1 & 2 (LP)

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Alan Rawsthorne's piano concertos with this 1966 release, featuring his Piano Concertos Nos. 1 and 2. This album showcases Rawsthorne's exceptional compositional prowess, blending intricate melodies and dynamic orchestration. The Piano Concerto No. 1, composed in 1939 and revised in 1942, opens with a lively Capriccio, followed by a profound Chaconne and a spirited Tarantella. The Piano Concerto No. 2, completed in 1951, presents a series of contrasting movements, from the playful Allegro piacevole to the intense Allegro molto and the serene Adagio semplice, culminating in a final Allegro.

Performed by the London Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Nicholas Braithwaite, with Malcolm Binns at the piano, this recording captures the essence of Rawsthorne's music. The album's duration of 46 minutes offers a concise yet comprehensive exploration of Rawsthorne's contributions to the piano concerto genre. Originally trained as a dentist and architect, Rawsthorne's transition to music resulted in a unique and compelling body of work, making this album a valuable addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection.