This album features Sergei Rachmaninov's Piano Concerto No. 2 in C minor, Op. 18, and Piano Concerto No. 3 in D minor, Op. 30, performed by Noriko Ogawa with the Malmö Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Owain Arwel Hughes. Rachmaninov, often criticized in his early career for his romantic and melodic style, overcame adversity with remarkable resilience. His compositions, particularly these concertos, showcase his melodic genius and deep emotional resonance, securing his place in the concert repertoire. The Piano Concerto No. 2, composed after a period of depression and creative silence, marked Rachmaninov's triumphant return to composition, celebrated for its lyrical themes and dramatic expressions. The Piano Concerto No. 3, known for its technical demands and complex structures, further solidified Rachmaninov's reputation, challenging even the most skilled pianists with its depth and intensity. Noriko Ogawa's interpretation brings a fresh perspective to these masterpieces, supported by the Malmö Symphony Orchestra's vibrant and nuanced performance, under Hughes's dynamic direction.
