Raff's 'Caprice on Themes from 'King Alfred'', Op. 65, No. 2, is a world première recording on this album.
Performer Biography
Kerry Stratton, the conductor, won the 2000 Masaryk Award and was decorated by the Czech government in 2007 for his services to Czech and Slovak culture.
Composer Biography
Joachim Raff, born in Switzerland, was once considered the foremost symphonist of his day during the 1860s and 1870s.
Composer Biography
Raff was entirely self-taught and initially struggled financially despite encouragement from Mendelssohn and working as an amanuensis for Liszt.
Recording & Production
The Prague Radio Symphony Orchestra (PRSO), established in 1926, is known for its extensive discography and has received multiple awards for its recordings.
Compositional Technique
Raff's Piano Concerto in C minor, Op. 185, despite its technical expertise, is characterized by melody and bravura rather than dry academic endeavor, with every subject treated in double counterpoint.
Performer Biography
Tra Nguyen, the pianist on this album, has received critical acclaim and awards for her recordings of Joachim Raff's piano music, including 'Album of the Week'.
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