The oboe and harpsichord concertos are reissues, and marvelous they are, while the Third Piano Concerto is (I believe) new to CD. This last item comes into direct conflict with Pálenícek’s earlier recording with Ancerl, also just recently reissued, and while his pianism remains as sensitive and responsive as always, Neumann’s slower, less rhythmically focused accompaniments don’t hold a candle to Ancerl’s despite more naturally balanced sound. Mind you, Neumann isn’t bad and his Martinu discography is very distinguished, but in this particular case the comparison really tells.
The other two concertos belong in the collections of anyone interested in the form, especially works written for relatively unconventional instruments. Martinu’s Oboe Concerto bids fair to become the finest 20th century work in the medium, vastly superior to, say, that by Richard Strauss. Vividly appealing melodies and imaginative orchestration (note the creative use of piano) make this piece special, and Ivan Séquardt plays beautifully, as does Zuzana Ruzicková in the equally delightful, effervescent Harpsichord Concerto. You’ll probably never hear either of these pieces live, so snap up this well-recorded disc and enjoy.
