Poles apart? Ignacy Jan Paderewski is a familiar name, but the same can hardly be said of Jerzy Gablenz. Jonathan Plowright makes the strongest case possible for Gablenz’s piano concerto: a substantial work rich in melodic invention and thunderous pianism.
REVIEW:
‘It’s easy to understand why Plowright has chosen to champion this appealing work by Gablenz, with its variety of texture and mood, melodic invention, and imaginative orchestration. In terms of sheer spontaneity, pliant rhythmic élan, and delicacy of texture, I cannot imagine a more thrilling performance of Paderewski's Polish Fantasy, or one that more fully captures his heartfelt message. Łukasz Borowicz and the BBC Scottish are everywhere complicit in this happy enterprise. Combining an unfamiliar yet worthy work with Paderewski’s signature warhorse, freshly reconceived and proudly resplendent, makes this release a rare treat.
