Castelnuovo-Tedesco / Marangoni Piano Concertos 1 & 2 CD

Mario Castelnuovo-Tedesco's two Piano Concertos form a contrasting pair. Concerto No. 1, written in 1927, is a vivid and witty example of his romantic spirit, exquisite melodies and rich yet transparent orchestration. Concerto No. 2, composed a decade later, is a darker, more dramatic and virtuosic work. The deeply-felt and dreamlike slow movement and passionate finale are tinged with bleak moments of somber agitation, suggestive of unfolding tragic events with the imminent introduction of the Fascist Racial Laws that led Castelnuovo-Tedesco to seek exile in the USA in 1939. The Four Dances from 'Love's Labour's Lost', part of the composer's recurring fascination for the art of Shakespeare, are atmospheric, richly characterized and hugely enjoyable. This is their first performance and recording. After winning national and international awards, Alessandro Marangoni has appeared throughout Europe and America, as a soloist and as a chamber musician, collaborating with some of Italy's leading performers. In 2007 he won the prestigious Amici di Milano International Prize for Music. Andrew Mogrelia has had a varied career of concerts, recording and work with major dance companies. He has an extensive discography for Naxos/Marco Polo, with his complete Sleeping Beauty (8.550490-92) acclaimed as a clear first choice by Gramophone magazine.

1. I. Allegro Giusto 2. II. Andantino Alla Romanza - 3. III. Vivo E Festoso 4. I. Vivace E Brillante 5. II. Romanza, Tranquillo E Meditativo - 6. III. Vivo E Impetuoso 7. No. 1. Sarabande (For the King of Navarre) 8. No. 2. Gavotte (For the Princess of France) 9. No. 3. Spanish Dance (For Don Adriano de Armado) 10. No. 4. Russian Dance (Masque)