Nikolai Medtner's "Piano Concertos Nos. 1 and 3" is a captivating collection of classical piano masterpieces, released on 28 april 1999 under the Naxos label. This album showcases the brilliance of Medtner's compositional prowess, featuring two of his most renowned piano concertos. The first concerto, in C Minor, Op. 33, is a four-movement work that begins with a powerful Allegro, followed by a serene Tranquillo, meditativamente. The third movement returns to the initial tempo, while the final Allegro molto brings the concerto to a thrilling close. The third concerto, in E Minor, Op. 60, known as the "Ballade," is a three-movement piece that starts with a majestic Con moto largamente, followed by an intriguing Interludium, and concludes with a dynamic Finale.
Medtner's intricate and expressive compositions are brought to life in this recording, offering a rich and immersive listening experience. The album's duration of 1 uur, 9 min. provides a substantial exploration of Medtner's musical genius, making it a valuable addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. Whether you're a longtime admirer of Medtner's work or a newcomer to his compositions, this album is sure to impress with its technical virtuosity and emotional depth.