Frank Dupree/Philippens - Nikolai Kapustin: Piano Concerto No. 4, Double Concerto, Chamber Symphony

Drawing parallels with another famous composer of symphonic jazz, Kapustin is occasionally considered a �Russian in Gershwin�s clothing�. Most of his compositions are influenced by jazz and expertly combine jazz elements with those of the traditions running from Bach to Prokofiev and Stravinsky. The aesthetic diversity with which the classical roots and the stylistic devices of jazz are amalgamated in Kapustin�s output hallmark all three compositions on this recording. Only late � perhaps too late for Kapustin � did his catalogue of works reach greater international recognition. People who knew him describe him as a man who never desired the limelight. Apparently, he was happiest when he was able to compose work after work in his apartment, far away from the public eye.