Rachmaninov's pianism and compositions were influenced by the legendary Anton Rubinstein, who advocated for clear textures and crisp interpretations.
Composition History
Rachmaninov's Piano Concerto No. 4 underwent multiple revisions after its initial failure in 1926 and 1928, with the final version completed in 1941 being the one most heard today.
Cultural Impact
Rachmaninov's Piano Concerto No. 2 has been a source for popular songs, including Frank Sinatra's 'Full Moon and Empty Arms' and Eric Carmen's 'All by Myself'.
Composer Biography
Sergei Rachmaninov, the composer of the piano concertos on this album, was considered one of the finest pianists of his generation, alongside legends like Moriz Rosenthal and Josef Lhevinne.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Rachmaninov, a diehard romantic, incorporated influences from composers like Bartók and Stravinsky, as well as American jazz from George Gershwin and Paul Whiteman, into his Piano Concerto No. 4.
Cultural Impact
Melodies from Rachmaninov's Piano Concerto No. 2 have been featured in several films, such as 'The Seven Year Itch' and 'The Fountainhead'.
Composer Biography
Rachmaninov possessed unusually large hands, which allowed him to play massive sonorities with precision, unlike pianists with smaller hands who might rely on pedal or arpeggios.
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Rachmaninow: Piano Concerto No. 2 ("Masterworks")
Rachmaninoff: Piano Concertos Nos. 1-4 & Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini
Rachmaninov: Piano Concertos Nos.2 & 4
Rachmaninov: Piano Concertos Nos. 2 & 3
Rachmaninov: Piano Concerto No. 2 in C Minor, Op. 18
Rachmaninov: Piano Concerto No. 2 & Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini
Rachmaninoff: Piano Concertos Nos. 2 & 4
Rachmaninov: Piano Concertos 1 & 2
Rachmaninoff: Piano Concertos Nos. 1 & 4 & Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini
