Joseph Marx was an excellent pianist: the hugely demanding solo part of his Romantic Piano Concerto, a ‘symphonic duet’ between piano and orchestra, marks him as a true virtuoso who had also absorbed the heady impressionism of Debussy, Scriabin and Delius. While having no connection with film music, Marx left a multitude of intoxicating melodies that eclipsed the wildest of Hollywood’s dreams. His second piano concerto Castelli Romani was inspired by ancient ruins in the wooded hills outside Rome, and is a magical, pyrotechnic display of Mediterranean emotions and masterfully orchestrated atmospheric pictures.

This recording is part of our series of re-releases of the music of Joseph Marx, originally to be found on the ASV label. MusicWeb International wrote: ‘Lively’s approach accentuates the breadth and sunset grandeur of the Romantic Concerto. We are fortunate that such an important series…have demonstrated their tenacity, good taste and acumen.’ ClassicsToday.com added, ‘Piano soloist David Lively is a solid and secure technician and every ounce the colorist this music needs…’