Pianist
Alexandre Tharaud
, although he has recorded a wide range of music, is something of a
Ravel
specialist, having recorded all of the composer's solo piano music. Now, he rounds things out with
's two piano concertos. The
Piano Concerto in G major
is one of the staples of the 20th century repertory, and
Tharaud
contributes a bright, quick, detail-packed performance that anyone will enjoy. He doesn't overdo the blues aspect of the first movement, which can speak for itself, and he has a perhaps quintessentially Gallic stylishness in his playing. Perhaps the highlight here is the
Piano Concerto for the Left Hand
, written for pianist
Paul Wittgenstein
(brother of the philosopher
Ludwig
), who had lost his right arm in World War I. This work is artfully set up so as to conceal the fact that only one hand is used, and it is quite imposing. It should carry just a hint of somberness that recalls the grim circumstances attending its composition, and
captures this nicely.
closes with a colorful reading of
Falla
's
Nights in the Gardens of Spain
that will send the listener out into the world in a cheerful mood. The
Orchestre National de France
under conductor
Louis Langree
is superb in music that is often technically difficult, with perfect brass and wind control in
's jazzier effusions. This release landed on classical best-seller lists in the autumn of 2023. ~ James Manheim