Bezuidenhout,Kristian Mozart: Piano Concertos K. 271 & 456 CD

The origins of these concertos, performed here by Kristian Bezuidenhout, may each be traced to a woman. The so-called "Jeunehomme" Concerto, K.271, a vehicle for rather unexpected musical daring, could instead take it's nickname from the work's dedicatee: the piano virtuoso Louise Victoire Jenamy, daughter of Mozart's old friend, the dancer Noverre. As for K.456, cast in a more traditional mold yet so elaborate and seductive, it was apparently composed for Maria Theresia von Paradis, a blind pianist acclaimed throughout Europe. Two works distinctly different in character, while somehow being aptly complementary.

1. Mozart: Piano Concerto No. 9 in E-Flat Major, K. 271 "Jeunehomme": I. Allegro 2. Mozart: Piano Concerto No. 9 in E-Flat Major, K. 271 "Jeunehomme": II. Andantino 3. Mozart:Piano Concerto No. 9 in E-Flat Major, K. 271 "Jeunehomme": III. Rondeau. Presto 4. Mozart: Piano Concerto No. 18 in B-Flat Major, K. 456: I. Allegro Vivace 5. Mozart: Piano Concerto No. 18 in B-Flat Major, K. 456: II. Andante Un Poco Sostenuto 6. Mozart: Piano Concerto No. 18 in B-Flat Major, K. 456: III. Allegro Vivace