Written in the three-movement form typical of Romantic concertos, the Piano Concerto No. 3 by Sergei Rachmaninov is filled with the composer’s stylistic hallmarks: dazzling virtuosity and plush melody.
It begins with an Allegro movement in D minor in which the opening statement, a simple melody, is juxtaposed against a slower theme. They frame a characteristic Rachmaninov development section, with brilliant passagework and thundering climaxes that create intense drama before the original theme reappears in relative tranquility.
The concerto’s second movement, marked Intermezzo reveals what many listeners value most in Rachmaninov: a melody of intense, swooning romanticism that goes wherever its organic, spontaneous development seems to lead it. Introspective in character, it builds gradually from quiet nostalgia to dramatic fortissimos that showcase the soloist’s power.
This development is mediated by the reintroduction of the main melody from the first movement. Solo flourishes from the piano lead directly from its close. In a work that is both a sprint and a marathon, this movement provides the few moments of rest for the soloist.
Grace and speed are on order for the final movement, which builds toward a powerful climax by weaving together contrasting materials: accented march rhythms alternating with flowing, lyrical phrases. The movement recalls melodic materials from the concerto’s opening, concluding with a coda of thrilling power.
Here is Ms. Buniatishvili to play this music for you:
