Rachmaninoff: Symphony No.2, Arrangement for Piano & Orchestra by Alexander Warenberg (LP)

In the year 2007 pianist and composer Alexander Warenberg reworked Rachmaninoff’s second symphony into a full scale piano concerto. Ever since this works gained popularity and recognition as a new repertoire work, having been performed by acclaimed soloists and orchestras all around the world.

Alexander Warenberg tackled the seemingly ludicrous task of changing the iconic second symphony into a work with an important piano part. Warenberg has meticulously reworked the four movements of the symphony into the regular three movements of Rachmaninoff’s concertos. In this process the piece has been reduced by some 40% and several necessary re-orchestrations have been carried out. The result is more than just an interesting experiment, this spectacular, virtuoso concerto shows off Warenberg’s unique talent as a ‘re-composer’, and it conquered the hearts of those who love their Rachmaninoff.

Pianist Wolfram Schmitt-Leonardy took it upon himself to familiarize himself with this entirely new score. And so did conductor Theodore Kuchar with the Janácek Philharmonic Orchestra. Their brilliant performance is a truly romantic one. The score is published by Boosey & Hawkes.

A treat for any Rachmaninoff and piano lover!