Rachmaninov consulted Dr. Nikolai Dahl, a neuropsychotherapy specialist, who used hypnosis to help him regain confidence to compose his Piano Concerto No. 2.
Compositional Technique
In the Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, Rachmaninov introduces the plainchant 'Dies irae' in the seventh variation, a reference that appears in many of his works as a signature motif.
Composition History
Rachmaninov's Piano Concerto No. 2 was composed after he suffered severe depression following the panned premiere of his Symphony No. 1 in 1897.
Interpretation
Yuja Wang finds the Mahler Chamber Orchestra, featured on this recording, wonderful to work with due to their listening skills and young age.
Performer Biography
Yuja Wang, the pianist on this recording, was surprised and delighted to record these Rachmaninov concertos, a choice spurred on by conductor Claudio Abbado.
Compositional Technique
Rachmaninov's Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini ingeniously combines the format of variations with that of a three-movement concerto.
Composer Biography
After fleeing the Russian Revolution in 1917, Rachmaninov's career shifted from primarily composing in Russia to an international concert pianist in the West due to financial necessity.
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