Conductor(s): Loughran, James
Artist(s): Biret, Idil
Label: Idil Biret Archive
Genre: Concerto
Period: Romantic
Catalogue No: IBA-LP009
Barcode: 747313271924
Release Date: 01/2026

SAINT-SAËNS, C.: Piano Concertos Nos. 2 and 4 (Biret, Philharmonia Orchestra, Loughran)

Capturing Idil Biret’s first concerto recording at age 47, this historic 1988 session embodies her triumphant entry into orchestral repertoire after decades of solo work. The album highlights her profound connection to Saint-Saëns – showcasing the Concerto No. 2 in G minor’s dramatic cadenzas and the innovative structure of the Concerto No. 4 in C minor. Recorded at London’s St. Barnabas Church with legendary sound engineers Mark Brown and Tony Faulkner, the project was made possible by support from the Turkish Ministry of Culture. This release marked the beginning of Biret’s legendary Naxos partnership, ultimately distributing the recording worldwide to critical acclaim.

Tracklist

Saint-Saëns, Camille
Biret, Idil (piano)
Philharmonia Orchestra (Orchestra)
Loughran, James (Conductor)
1 I. Andante sostenuto 12:28
Biret, Idil (piano)
Philharmonia Orchestra (Orchestra)
Loughran, James (Conductor)
2 II. Allegro scherzando 06:06
Biret, Idil (piano)
Philharmonia Orchestra (Orchestra)
Loughran, James (Conductor)
3 III. Presto 07:14
Biret, Idil (piano)
Philharmonia Orchestra (Orchestra)
Loughran, James (Conductor)
Biret, Idil (piano)
Philharmonia Orchestra (Orchestra)
Loughran, James (Conductor)
4 I. Allegro moderato 14:49
Biret, Idil (piano)
Philharmonia Orchestra (Orchestra)
Loughran, James (Conductor)
5 II. Allegro vivace - Andante - Allegro 14:46
Biret, Idil (piano)
Philharmonia Orchestra (Orchestra)
Loughran, James (Conductor)

Total Playing Time: 55:23