Credits:

Eldar Nebolsin

Description:

This is a collection of exhilarating piano concertos by the Portuguese composer and musicologist Lopes-Graa (19061994). After studying at the Lisbon Conservatory, he went to Paris to study composition and orchestration under Charles Keckren; however, his worksmuch like those of Bartkare strongly influenced by Portuguese folk music. These two piano concertos feature contrasting musical styles: the bright and cheerful No. 1 (whose use of sound in the final movement is particularly superb) and the dark and subdued No. 2. Both appeal to the listener with a charm distinct from the European sound. The piano is often treated almost like a percussion instrument; rather than expecting beautiful melodies, this music is best described as a shower of sound to be savored.Naxos Japan