Dussek: Piano Concertos

"Jan Ladislav Dussek…was one of the very first touring virtuoso pianists and a composer of works for his instrument. One of the most fascinating aspects of his piano concertos is their remarkably close kinship to Beethoven…Dussek seems to have absorbed Beethoven’s penchant for dramatic outbursts and flourishes while retaining individual touches of his own…The Adagio of the second concerto is pleasant…the finale, also in the minor key, reveals the composer’s Czech roots. 

Andreas Staier’s performance in this concerto is appropriately dramatic and lyrical in turns, and Concerto Köln works hand-in-glove with him. It is an exceptionally good period orchestra, playing with an outstanding sense of musical line and a fine control of dynamics. This is an interesting and welcome rerelease." --Fanfare, July 2012