The DCD Classical 'Cast is also available as an enhanced podcast. When played through iTunes, the DCD Enhanced Classical 'Cast displays the album art of the works as they play, and provide links to webpages where you can find out more information and purchase the selections.

Friday, August 20, 2010

DCD 098 - Zeltzer Plays Rachmaninov and Prokofiev

In this edition of the DCD Classical 'Cast we showcase a remarkable 1995 release from Laurel Records. Renowned pianist Mark Zeltser teamed up with his fellow countryman, conductor Rudolf Barshai, to record two mainstays for piano and orchestra from their native Russia.

The Prokofiev Third Piano Concerto, Op. 26 bristles with emotion and energy in this recording. Zeltser captures Prokofiev's sly humor, while easily dealing with the massive technical challenges of the work.

Also on the CD is Rachmaninov's Rhapsody on a Theme by Paganini for piano and orchestra, Op. 43, another work that really puts the pianist through his paces. In this podcast we can only play an excerpt of this work due to time constraints, but rest assured the entire composition is well worth a listen. Zeltser and Barshai work in tandem to make this piece come alive.

Remember, you don't need an iPod to enjoy a podcast. Just click on the link below to download to your computer.


- Ralph Graves

This episode we play:

Prokofiev: Concerto No. 3 for Piano and Orchestra, Op. 26, Mvt. 1
The Cologne Radio Symphony Orchestra; Rudolf Barshai, conductor
Mark Zeltzer, pianist
A Laurel Records release

Rachmaninov: Rhapsody on a Theme by Paganini for piano and orchestra, Op. 43, final variations
The Cologne Radio Symphony Orchestra; Rudolf Barshai, conductor
Mark Zeltzer, pianist
A Laurel Records release

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