The acclaimed pianist David Greilsammer performs three pieces that celebrate the strong musical ties between Europe and America during the early part of the 20th century. The disc includes Polish-born composer Alexandre Tansman’s Piano Concerto No. 2, receiving its world premiere recording, Gershwin’s ever popular Rhapsody in Blue, and Nadia Boulanger’s rarely played Fantasy for Piano and Orchestra.
“pianist, conductor and orchestra make a compelling case for both the Tansman Second Concerto as a minor masterpiece well worth reviving, and the Boulanger Fantaisie as a fascinating glimpse into this justly revered teacher's "other life".” --Gramophone Magazine, March 2011
“pianist, conductor and orchestra make a compelling case for both the Tansman Second Concerto as a minor masterpiece well worth reviving, and the Boulanger Fantaisie as a fascinating glimpse into this justly revered teacher's "other life".” --Gramophone Magazine, March 2011
“[Tansman's] Piano Concerto No 2, from 1927, is little short of a lost masterpiece of elegant, urbane Modernism. Following a performance of it, Tansman was accosted in his dressing-room by Gershwin, excitedly acclaiming him "a genius!", and no wonder” --The Independent, 30th September 2010 ****
“Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue, which Greilsammer plays with a blend of romance and rhythmic zest, is the most familiar of the pieces...[Tansman's] concerto was dedicated to Tansman’s great friend Charlie Chaplin, whose exuberance the music echoes in a performance that, in the piano and orchestral playing alike, has drive, wit and sparkle.” --The Telegraph, 22nd October 2010 ****
“Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue, which Greilsammer plays with a blend of romance and rhythmic zest, is the most familiar of the pieces...[Tansman's] concerto was dedicated to Tansman’s great friend Charlie Chaplin, whose exuberance the music echoes in a performance that, in the piano and orchestral playing alike, has drive, wit and sparkle.” --The Telegraph, 22nd October 2010 ****
