Bohemian Rhapsodies

Martinu originally thought of creating a nouvelle Symphonie Fantastique after again enjoying a number of Berlioz compositions. Out of a murmuring orchestral texture emerge Czech-flavored tunes often regarded as an expression of Martinu’s longing for his homeland. There is also a vision-filled scherzo and a sequence of fanciful orchestral dreams which arch toward triumph before settling in resigned tranquility.

It took some 25 years for Liszt to finally complete his First Piano Concerto from his initial sketches for the piece. Originally published as a concerto symphonique it is thought to be modelled on Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony. Loosely programmatic and using Liszt's bold new departure in his unification of the movements into one uninterrupted sweep of music it was the precursor to the symphonic poem.

Dvorák’s Fifth Symphony is a milestone work, one of those remarkable pieces that unlocks doors to new possibilities and opportunities. It has the all the power and invention required to beguile, transport and agitate its audience, particularly in the tempestuous finale.

The Argentinian pianist Sergio Tiempo showed an uncommon poetic sensibility allied to a powerhouse technique, and the minefield of Chopin’s demanding score held no terrors for him. - Chicago Herald.