Rakhmaninov S. Fantasy (Suite No 1) for two pianos

Sergey Rakhmaninov is one of the greatest Russian composers. Being also unrivalled piano virtuoso of his times he composed concertos and pieces for piano that were equally awesome by their musical emotional qualities, style and pianism. Inherent feeling of the instrument made Rakhmaninov one of the most preferable composer for pianists all around the world. In his pieces the piano sings on virtually thousand voices and its might makes the audience loose the sense of time.

Suites for two pianos (along with Russian Rhapsody e moll) originally written for two pianos, not being a transcription and contribute considerably to the history of the genre. The Second Suite is written the same year as his magnificent Second Concerto for piano and this work demonstrates the mature genius unlike the First Suite, lyrical and fresh, transparent in its serenity that was written less than 10 years before the Second.

The First Suite op 5 subtitled Fantasia (Pictures), was written in 1893 and dedicated to the great Russian composer Piotr Tchaikowsky. The material of the third movement was later used by the composer in his opera The Covetous Knight (written after one of the so called Little tragedies by A. Pushkin with the same name).

The four movements are:
     I. Barcarolle. Allegretto, in G minor
     II. La nuit... L'amour... Adagio sostenuto, in D major. (The night...the love...)
     III. Les Larmes. Largo di molto, in G minor. (The Tears)
     IV. Pâques. Allegro maestoso, in G minor. (Easter)