Selim Palmgren's "Piano Concertos 2, 3 & 5" is a captivating collection of the Finnish composer's piano concertos, released on Fazer Records/Finlandia in 1990. This album showcases Palmgren's mastery of the piano concerto form, offering a rich and diverse listening experience. The three concertos presented here, each with its own unique character and depth, provide a comprehensive overview of Palmgren's compositional style and his contribution to the piano concerto genre.
The second concerto, "The River," is a lyrical and evocative work that flows with a sense of natural beauty and fluidity. The third concerto, "Metamorphoses," is a more dramatic and introspective piece, exploring themes of transformation and change. The fifth concerto in A major is a vibrant and energetic work, filled with rhythmic drive and melodic invention.
Each concerto is a testament to Palmgren's skill as both a composer and a pianist, demonstrating his ability to create music that is both technically demanding and deeply expressive. The performances on this album are brought to life by a talented ensemble, with the piano playing taking center stage.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 3 minutes, this album is a substantial and rewarding listen for anyone interested in classical music, particularly the piano concerto. Selim Palmgren's "Piano Concertos 2, 3 & 5" is a valuable addition to any classical music collection, offering a rich and varied exploration of the composer's work.