Nino Rota: Harp Concerto Context Although famed for his film scores, Nino Rota also wrote a collection of other works that were not linked to film. His 1947 Harp Concerto is a fantastic example of Rota’s sensitive and lyrical writing as he composes for a naturally elegant instrument. The concerto Read more…
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Bassoon Concerto Context Composed in 1774, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s Bassoon Concerto is a staple in bassoon repertory. Written when Mozart was just 18 years old, the concerto was the first he wrote for a woodwind instrument. The bassoon gained much popularity in the 16th century, with composers Read more…
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Andante for Flute & Orchestra K.315 Context Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart composed his Andante for Flute & Orchestra in 1778, after a commission came through from Ferdinand De Jean. De Jean also commissioned K.313, also known as Flute Concerto No.1 in G major. However, the issue was that Read more…
Ernst von Dohnányi: Piano Concerto No.1 Context As well as being a great pianist and conductor, Ernst von Dohnányi (1877-1960) is most fondly remembered for being a composer. He composed a number of works that were largely popular during his time, although most but his chamber works seem to be Read more…
Edvard Grieg: Piano Concerto in A Context Edvard Grieg composed his famous Piano Concerto in 1868, and remained the only completed concerto by the composer. Grieg was the intended soloist for the 1869 premiere in Copenhagen, however the 25-year old composer had another commitment. Edmond Neupert was drafted in as Read more…
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Rondo for Piano and Orchestra Context Supposedly composed in 1782, around the same time as some of his popular late concertos, Rondo for Piano and Orchestra is a lively work that showcases the composer’s flair for melodic writing. There is still much speculation as to why this Read more…
Miriam Hyde: Piano Concerto No.1 Context Composed in 1933 when she was just 20 years old, Miriam Hyde’s Piano Concerto No.1 was structured from a similar work that was for two pianos. Hailing from Adelaide, Australia, Hyde moved to London in 1932 to study at the Royal College of Music. Read more…
Franz Liszt: Totentanz Context Completed in 1849, Totentanz (‘Dance of the Dead’) is a fiery work for solo piano and orchestra by Hungarian composer, Franz Liszt. The work is primarily based on the Dies irae melody, which Liszt takes and develops into a powerful set of variations. Liszt was known Read more…
Herbert Howells: Elegy Context Herbert Norman Howells was born in Lydney, Gloucestershire on 17th October 1892. After beginning to learn piano and organ at home with his parents, Howells continued his musical studies at the prestigious Royal College of Music, London. Here, Howells studied under the likes of Hubert Parry Read more…
Camille Saint-Saëns: Cello Concerto No. 1 Context Composed for cellist Auguste Tolbecque in 1872, Camille Saint-Saëns’ First Cello Concerto is still regarded as one of the most successful of its kind. During a time where instruments such as the piano and violin were often centre stage at concerts, Tolbecque was Read more…