Why aren’t these concertos played anymore? Okay, they may not be heavy duty masterpieces, but there isn’t a dud in the bunch. The 2nd and 4th are well known on record, though no one seems to offer them at concerts these days. That leaves three almost completely unknown works, each composed with the same high level of polish, sophistication, and craftsmanship as the two more popular concertos. At least one of these three, the “Egyptian” Concerto (No. 5), is an absolute guaranteed standing ovation when played live. Pianists take note! These are, one and all, excellent performances of delightful works, and at two discs for the price of one, you can take the plunge at minimal financial risk.
