Fuchs: Piano Concerto, Op. 27; Kiel: Piano Concerto, Op. 30

Robert Fuchs (1847-1927) and Friedrich Kiel (1821-1885) both composed directly in Beethoven's shadow, although Fuchs was also a close friend of, and was influenced by, Brahms. These two concertos are big and Romantic, and will excite and please fans of highly symphonic works in which the interplay between piano and a grand orchestra is exciting and outstanding. The earlier work has a nice, somewhat self-indulgent, but melodic first movement, a loving middle movement and a razzle-dazzle finale. Fuchs' concerto also features a last movement which is stunning in its virtuosity, an opener which is dramatic enough to immediately grab the listener, and a centerpiece which is enchanting. Martin Roscoe plays both concerti brilliantly and Brabbins leads the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra with great energy. The sound is broad and realistic. Highly recommended. --Robert Levine Amazon.com