Riveting. Virtuosic. Diabolical. Daredevil. Terrifying. Words that describe both Prokofiev’s Second Piano Concerto and Walton’s first symphony. The critic Harold Schonberg laid out the requirements for playing Prokofiev’s landmark work: “Steel fingers, steel biceps, steel triceps — a tonal steel trust.” (“…feats of prestidigitation from Denis Kozhukhin… ferocious energy… the octave leaps cast off as dizzyingly as any high-wire act” [BachTrack]). Meanwhile, Walton’s work premiered to critical acclaim for its commanding artistry and unflinching use of the power of the orchestra. Hang on to your seats for this one!