Anna Clyne Masquerade, Tchaikovsky Piano Concerto No. 1, Rachmaninov Symphonic Dances
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James Feddeck conductor, Daniel Ciobanu piano.
Anna Clyne’s Masquerade draws inspiration from the original mid-18th century promenade concerts held in London’s pleasure gardens, where people from all walks of life mingled to enjoy a wide array of entertainment; from music to acrobats, dancing, fireworks and masquerades. The work evokes the sense of occasion and celebration, melding original themes with old English country dancing melodies.
Stirring a similar sense of occasion is Tchaikovsky’s majestic and passionate First Piano Concerto. With its fabulous flourishes, thundering bravura, dazzling passagework and flamboyant and soaring tunes, it was a triumphant success at its premiere, and remains equally popular today. Returning to BBC NOW by popular demand, the prodigiously talented pianist Daniel Ciobanu is poised to guide us through the works stormy developments, meltingly beautiful melodies and fiery finale.
With luscious shifting harmonies and the rhythmic vitality characteristic of his later style, Rachmaninov’s final complete composition, his Symphonic Dances, uses motifs derived from Russian Church music alongside quotes from his own first symphony, creating a stirring mix of nostalgia versus the big city bustle and driving energy of ‘Modern America’.
