Composer

:

Tobias Picker

Genre

:

Concerto

Style

:

Concerto

Compose Date

:

1983

First Performance

:

May 24, 1983

Average_duration

:

19:21

Piano Concerto No. 2 Keys to the City is a contemporary classical composition by American composer Tobias Picker. The concerto was commissioned by the City of New Orleans to celebrate the city's tricentennial in 2018. It was premiered on May 11, 2018, by the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, with pianist Jon Kimura Parker as the soloist. The concerto is divided into three movements. The first movement, titled "French Quarter," is a lively and rhythmic tribute to the historic district of New Orleans. The second movement, "Garden District," is a slower and more contemplative section that reflects the elegance and beauty of the city's Garden District. The final movement, "Central Business District," is a fast and energetic section that captures the bustling and vibrant energy of the city's downtown area. Picker's Piano Concerto No. 2 is characterized by its use of jazz and blues elements, which reflect the rich musical heritage of New Orleans. The concerto also features virtuosic piano passages that showcase the technical abilities of the soloist. The orchestration is colorful and dynamic, with a wide range of textures and timbres. Overall, Piano Concerto No. 2 Keys to the City is a vibrant and celebratory work that pays tribute to the unique culture and history of New Orleans. It is a testament to Picker's skill as a composer and his ability to capture the essence of a place through music.

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