MultiPiano Ensemble; Royal Philharmonic Orchestra - Aryeh Levanon; Frank Martin; Francis Poulenc; Dmitry Shostakovich: Works for Pianos and Orchestra

Concertante orchestral works for more than one keyboard instrument saw a revival after the First World War with the neo-Baroque trends of the time helping to revitalise the neglected concerto grosso genre. Recorded here in a new version with three pianos, Martin�s Petite symphonie concertante reflects the dark tensions of the Second World War, while Poulenc�s delightful Concerto for Two Pianos is infused with the spirit of Mozart in its rich and eclectic stylistic tapestry. Shostakovich�s Concertino, in a new orchestral version, shifts between superficial Soviet entertainment and heartfelt expressiveness, and the songs quoted in Aryeh Levanon�s Land of Four Languages symbolise a hope for peace and harmony in Israel.