Amber No.5 - Moderato Assai [After A. Rubinstein's Piano Concerto No.4 in D Minor, Op. 70]

Anton Rubinstein (1829 - 1894)

 

It has not yet been my fate to hear the cataclysmic recording of this work by Anton Rubinstein's pupil Josef Hofmann, apparently one of the greatest interpretations of this virtuoso concerto that teems with bravura display.

 

Now, this a work that keeps me on the edge of my seat. The momentum is Mendelssohn-esque, but the chords are bigger than anything Mendelssohn ever wrote. Although there are slower and tender passages in the opening movement, there is a sense of momentum that carries one through to the end. A cadenza of great power (but not profundity) paves the way for the first movement coda. The playing in the cadenza becomes faster and faster, until piano is joined by the orchestra for the final few bars, and culminates in a flourish of emphatic intensity!

 

As much as I love Marc-Andre Hamelin, his version of this work is not a favourite. He does not let himself go... Pianist Joseph Banowetz with the Czecho-Slovak State Philharmonic Orchestra under conductor Robert Stankovsky paints a more vivid picture, as least pianistically.

You are a photographer that makes me want to study music. I can't wait to see your pictorial version of Albinoni's Adagio in G. (One of my favourites.) I better check you haven't done it already... I should have checked before leaving the comment.

David, I am listening to "The Adagio" this very moment!!! It was one of my favourite works when I began listening to classical music! It is so profoundly beautiful, so stately and dignified. The solo string playing over the sustained hum of the organ in the middle section of the work is serene. The piece reminds me of someone who is grieving a loss, but has resolved to carry on... And, I have not made a pictorial version of it yet. Maybe you should!

 

and the cadenza:

 

Amazing tones and shadow. Great work Kelvin... makeup, styling, mood... all great!

Thanks Kelvin. Laying down a challenge is healthy for my mind. I have no idea when it will be taken but I will be sure to let you know when it is. Just don't expect it to be as good as anything you have taken.

It will be good!!!