Review of Oliver Trendel – Constantinescu: Piano Concerto

You won't find Paul Constantinescu in your usual party guides. The Romanian composer, who lived from 1909 to 1963, combined neoclassical and folkloric trends in his music. His ballet music for “Wedding in the Carpathians” from 1939 depicts a village wedding with strong, sometimes rustic brushstrokes. Music with a large orchestra clearly describes the atmosphere and characters, revealing the full drama. The imitation of sound effects of marching bands and village instruments such as the santoor is authentic. The 1952 Piano Concerto combines the lively movement skills of Ravel and Prokofiev with the widescreen opulence of Rachmaninoff. There are also subtle folkloric elements. Pianist Oliver Trendel and conductor Markus Busch with the Rostockers have made a delightful discovery here. As much as all of this is interpreted with enthusiasm and bright colours, it leaves you wanting more.

Constantinescu: Piano and Wedding Concerto in the Carpathians

Oliver Trendel (piano), North German Rostock Orchestra, Markus Busch (conductor)
Hansler