George Gershwin’s Piano Concerto in F Major blends the structure of a traditional concerto with the unmistakable rhythms, color, and spirit of jazz. Written after the success of Rhapsody in Blue, the work shows Gershwin expanding his musical world with a full orchestral score of his own, pairing virtuosic piano writing with lively, unmistakably American energy.

Pianist Maxim Lando brings dazzling clarity and character to Gershwin’s bold solo writing. The concerto moves from its thunderous timpani opening and syncopated Charleston rhythms to a bluesy, nocturnal second movement and a brilliant finale filled with “rat-a-tat” piano figures, returning themes, and jazzy orchestral flourishes. The result is a performance that captures both Gershwin’s sophistication and his irresistible sense of swing.

Respighi’s Pines of Rome transports listeners across the landscapes and legends of the Eternal City, moving from present-day scenes to visions of ancient Rome. More expansive and dramatic than its sister work, Fountains of Rome, the piece surrounds the listener with brilliant orchestral color, from playful fanfares to shadowed catacombs and moonlit stillness.

This live recording captures the full sweep of Respighi’s imagination. Children play beneath the pines of the Villa Borghese, solemn chants rise near a catacomb, and a nightingale sings over the Janiculum. The final movement builds slowly and powerfully along the Appian Way, as distant footsteps grow into a blazing vision of imperial Rome.

Ottorino Respighi’s Fountains of Rome is a radiant tone poem that imagines four of Rome’s fountains at different times of day. Through delicate orchestral color, flowing melodies, and vivid scene-painting, Respighi transforms water, light, mythology, and memory into sound.

This live recording follows the city from the misty calm of the Fountain of Valle Giulia at dawn to the lively Triton Fountain in the morning and the grand procession of the Trevi Fountain at noon. The work closes at the Villa Medici Fountain at sunset, where tolling bells, birdsong, and rustling leaves fade gently into night.