This release presents a remarkable
transformation of Rachmaninoff’s
Second Symphony into a piano
concerto by Alexander Warenberg—
a bold, imaginative reworking that
fuses tradition with reinterpretation.
Originally composed between 1906
and 1908 and celebrated as one of
Rachmaninoff’s grandest symphonic
achievements, the Second Symphony is
a deeply emotional and melodically rich
work shaped by the composer’s Russian
identity, personal nostalgia, and turbulent
times.
Rachmaninoff, who believed music
must “speak from the heart,” infused
the Second Symphony with powerful,
sweeping themes and lush orchestrations
that reflect his soul and homeland.
It premiered in 1908 under his
baton, earning acclaim for its sincerity,
lyricism, and monumental scope. The
work later suffered cuts and abridged
versions, particularly in exile and
during the early recording era, but has
since been restored in performances
that respect its original architecture.
Warenberg, a Russian-born pianist and
composer with deep musical lineage,
draws from his heritage and Western
experiences to offer a version that
bridges past and present, familiarity
and innovation — breathing new life
into a beloved symphonic masterpiece.
Alexander Warenberg’s Piano
Concerto based on Rachmaninoffs
Second Symphony reimagines the
symphony as a three-movement
concerto, not merely arranged but
fundamentally recomposed.
Commissioned by Pieter van Winkel,
Warenberg cut and reshaped the
material for balance and pianistic
impact, drawing inspiration from
Pushkin’s Ruslan and Ludmila.
Pianist Wolfram Schmitt-Leonardy
highlights its emotional power and
authenticity, calling it a true homage
rather than imitation. The work offers
a new way for pianists to engage with
Rachmaninoff’s legacy—faithful in
spirit, bold in execution.