MANUEL M. PONCE (1882-1948): Piano Concerto No. 1 “Concierto romantico”, Arrulladora mexicana, Gavota, Romanza de amor, Intermezzo, RICARDO CASTRO (1864-1907): Piano Concerto in A Minor, Op. 22, Berceuse, Op. 36/1, Canto de amor, Plainte, Op. 38/2.

Description: The works on this recording exemplify the highest point of the romantic musical language in vogue in Mexico at the end of the 19th century, which later initiated the musical Nationalist movement brought on by the Mexican Revolution. Both Castro and Ponce made significant contributions to the development of classical music in Mexico, and their music reflects a synthesis of Mexican and European traditions, with influences from Chopin, Liszt, and Debussy. Castro’s Piano Concerto in A minor exemplifies true romanticism with lavish and spectacular orchestral lines. Serving as companion pieces to the concerto, Osorio performs three of Castro’s charming and expressive solo works: Berceuse, Canto de amor, and Plainte. Ponce’s Piano Concerto No. 1 “Romantico” simultaneously exhibits themes of great brilliance for the soloist, lyricism, introspection, virtuosity and beauty. Osorio also performs four of Ponce’s short solo piano pieces including one of his most popular works, Gavota, which captures the romantic nostalgia of Mexican society before the Revolution. José Federico Osorio (piano), Orquesta Sinfónica de Minería; Carlos Miguel Prieto.