Herz: Piano Concertos Nos. 3, 4 & 5 (Hyperion Romantic Piano Concerto 40)

Featuring

Howard Shelley
Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra
Henri Herz

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Composer Biography

Henri Herz, the composer, was a highly successful pianist, composer, teacher, inventor, and piano manufacturer based in Paris.

Composer Biography

In 1845, Herz undertook the first American tour by an important European pianist, paving the way for other notable pianists like Thalberg and Anton Rubinstein.

Composer's Artistic Vision

Herz's music was dismissed as superficial by some, but it offers scintillating piano-writing, melodic fecundity, and imaginative orchestration, reminding us that music can simply entertain and lift spirits.

Composer Biography

Herz established his own piano factory, incorporating his improvements on Erard's double-escapement action, and also built a concert hall in Paris.

Performer Biography

Howard Shelley, the pianist and conductor on this recording, has had a distinguished career since his 1971 London debut and is known for his work with Rachmaninov's music.

Critical Reception

From the early 1820s, Herz enjoyed a reputation that rivaled Liszt, Chopin, and Thalberg, and his music commanded three to four times the price of his nearest rivals.