Novk: Koncerty – CD

This new recording presents three concertante works by Jan Novk: Concentus biiugis for piano four hands and string orchestra (1977), Choreae vernales for solo flute, string orchestra, harp and celesta (1980), and the Concerto for Two Pianos and Orchestra (1955). The solo parts are performed by the composers daughters Dora Novak-Wilmington and flautist Clara Novkov, together with pianist Karel Korek, the Czech Radio Symphony Orchestra and conductor Tom Netopil. The recording has the character of a family gathering across time: Clara may have returned in memory to the age of fifteen, when her father gave her the first version of Choreae vernales, while Dora plays the piano part once performed with equal brilliance by her mother Elika. The two-piano concerto reflects Novks experiences studying with B. Martin in New York, including their visits to jazz clubs, and complements a historic 1957 recording. Concentus biiugis was performed in 1977 in support of Charter 77, while the little-known orchestral version of Spring Dances was created in Italy. The soloists, orchestra and Tom Netopil create a colourful and remarkable musical landscape.