Ernst von Dohnanyi Early Concertos Impress

According to Wikipedia, Ernst von Dohnanyi's style was "personal, but very conservative." I'd add well-constructed and appealing. And for two of the works presented here, not all that conservative.

Dohnanyi wrote his Konzertstück in D major for cello and orchestra when he was 26. This 1904 piece isn't conservative. It's written in the lush post-Romantic style common throughout Europe at the time.  Andrei Ionita brings out the lyrical nature of this work. He plays with intensity and feeling that made me appreciate Dohnanyi's poignant melodies.

The Variations on a Nursery Song for piano and orchestra, Op. 25 was composed in 1914. It might be considered a little old-fashioned, but that's part of its charm. It starts out with a roiling Beethovanian fury. Dohnanyi deconstructs the theme, presenting it in discrete and highly ornamented chunks. As the piece progresses and the variations become simpler, and the tune becomes clear.

Sofja Gülbadamova nicely balances techique with good humor. This was a piano showpiece, but one with a gentle surprise. Gülbadamova delivers the crashing chords and light, single-note figures with equal aplomb.

OK, the Concertino for Harp and Chamber Orchestra, Op. 45 is definitely conservative. When it premiered in 1952, tonality was dead (at least in academia). Dohnanyi was 75, and this work looks back to an earlier time. It was the last orchestral work he completed.

Harpist Silke Aichhorn plays with a smooth, silken tone. Her runs sound shimmery. Yet melodies are clearly articulated. I found it an appealing work.

Deutsche Staatsphilharmonic Rheinland-Pfalz is directed by Modestas Pitrenas. There are some standout solos by principal players. And the ensemble has a rich, homogeneous blend that well suits this music.

Ernst von Dohnanyui: Concertos
Variations on a Nursery Song
Sofja Gülbadamova, piano; Silke Aichhorn, harp; Andrei Ionita, cello
Deutsche Staatsphilharmonic Rheinland-Pfalz; Modestas Pitrenas, conductor
Capriccio