- Main performer: Joshua Pierce
- Booklet languages: English
- Time: 72:03
- Release Date: 2006
Review
This collection of three somewhat disparate works provides listeners with an energetic revisiting of a standard of the repertoire, as well as an introduction to two splendid works that may not have been heard elsewhere. Accomplished pianist Joshua Pierce joins Anton Nanut and the RTV Symphony Orchestra of Slovenia.The Rachmaninov is easily the fastest rendition in memory. While some performers may falter with such ambitious tempi, Pierce thrives. Every note is clearly articulated even in the most bravura passages. Each variation flows naturally into the next and by the last three, Pierce has the listener at the edge of his/her seat wondering if he can keep the fireworks. The RTV Symphony ably keeps the momentum going, although there are occasional intonation issues in the winds, most notably in the 17th variation.
As an orchestrator, Respighi was a master of variety in color, mood, and evocation. The Toccata for Piano and Orchestra is no exception, making it puzzling why this piece is not heard more frequently. Pierce and the RTV deftly handle the many changes in mood from the grave beginning, to the scintillating and whimsical end sections, and the extended lugubrious, brilliantly executed cello solos.
The outer movements of the Casella Partita for piano and orchestra are rambunctious and bombastic almost to a fault. A lesser pianist may quickly lose the listener's interest, but Pierce manages to pull it off despite the blaring orchestral tuttis. The second-movement Passacaglia is quite different, however, and is extremely heavy and brooding. ~ Mike D. Brownell, All Music Guide
