Bruno Mantovani: D'un jardin féérique (compulsory piece)
From the very first notes, a delicate filigree of piano sounds comes alive. Sergei Redkin lays down the chords strongly. The breathing pauses are emphasised, and with the other musical accents he is able to place despite evident nerves, this not overly attractive work becomes more interesting and beautiful. There is indeed something fairytale-like about it.
Sergei Rachmaninov: Concerto no. 3 in d, opus 30
First movement – Allegro ma non tanto
Redkin grows into the performance. The entry is somewhat cautious, however clichéd that may sound. Once this first movement of the famous concerto gets going, where the orchestra also shows itself at its best again, we get a concert instead of a competition. Redkin's virtuosity is beyond question, but he does not emphasise it.
Cadenza
Masterful. That is the cadenza. Not only in terms of composition, but also in its execution it is grand. Redkin allows himself to be absorbed in this 'feat of strength'.
Second movement – Intermezzo adagio
Could it be more romantic? With a convincing 'masculine sentiment', Redkin interprets this varied movement. From dreamy floating it becomes almost aggressive, the variations are full of feelings ranging from simplicity to generous benevolence and resignation. Redkin colours it all in.
Third movement – Finale alla breve
Redkin just gets better and better. He is all Rachmaninov and as it were forgets the competition. He sweeps you along as a listener completely in emotion and dignity. The pianist meets all the demands that Rachmaninov makes with this concerto. What a climax Redkin achieves. Quite a bit of goosebumps…