Search - Aram Khachaturian, Dmitry Yablonsky, Moscow State Symphony Orchestra :: Khachaturian: Piano Concert; Concert Rhapsody

Entertaining and approachable

DG | swindon, uk | 11/03/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is a very attractive CD-two big concerto works by Armenian composer Aram Khachaturian, the composer of the world famous Onedin Line theme aka the adagio from his ballet Spartacus. There, is, of course, much more to him than that, and what better place to start than this disc? There's a distinct folk colouring to the concerto, and an unusual instrument is used in the 2nd movement-a flexatone. It begins with a dramatic first movement, then progresses onto a mysterious slow movement, and ends with a brilliant display finale. The concerto rhapsody is less immediately accesible, but full of memorable ideas and virtuosity. The performances are perhaps a trifle smooth-a little more earthiness would have gone down well, but I can still reccommend this to anyone interested in wonderful music."