Pianist Janne Mertanen has been around since the turn of the century, recording thoughtful interpretations of Chopin and Scandinavian music on smaller labels, but when this Chopin collection appeared on Sony Classical in 2023, he had only recently been signed to the label. So perhaps he still qualifies as an up-and-comer. Mertanen put out an acclaimed pairing of the Chopin concertos several years ago, and on this release, he also sticks to larger forms with the Piano Sonata No. 3 in B minor, Op. 58, a pair Impromptus, the Ballade No. 4 in F minor, Op. 52, and the Barcarolle in F sharp minor, Op. 60. These are all later Chopin works, displaying the characteristic complexity of his music toward the end of his life.

On this second record we will hear Palmgren’s magnificent Piano Concertos no. 4-5. The brilliant pianist on the record is Janne Mertanen who has made many recordings for Alba Records. Two other pieces conductor Jan Söderblom has chosen for this record are Pastorale in three scenes and Exotic March. The first recording of Palmgren’s music – The River (ABCD385) received brilliant reviews. The River included Piano Concerto no.1-3 performed by Henri Sigfridsson. The recording was one of the best sellers for Alba Records in 2016.