Choosing a Concerto

[kelly1995]

 Hi all: Im not really sure if I should be posting here or in the students section. I just recently won a youth competition put on by our local symphony. The result of which will have me perfoming with the orchestra a concerto during the Christmas Holidays. My Teacher discussed it with the Conductor and they wont me to do either the Mozart no 20 or 21.  I wanted to do the Brahms Concerto #1, but my teacher is totally against that. He says that I dont have the emotional maturity to tackle anything on that level.  He wants a polished performance from me.

I already have both of the Mozart's in my head, but not in my hands yet.  Just wondering if anyone has any insight on either of these pieces.

Thanks, Kelly

[amelialw]

I agree with your teacher.
The Brahms concerto No.1 is much more difficult then those 2 Mozart Concerto's.
In fact it is one of the hardest piano concerto's out there.
I haven't learnt either of these concerto's except to sigh read No.21.
Personally I like No.21 more but fewer people learn No.20.

[s1d1f1]

Your teacher is TOTALY right...You know that Brams is for older people...kids...whatever....Better mozzart,but don't think this is ,,easy,,one,You have to have a MOZAT TONE,I't is how we call it,a brilliant technic,and a mentaly stabile,clear mind,while you are playing it...wish you all luck...s1d1f

[teresa_b]

I agree, don't do Brahms--very, very heavy!  Wait a few years on that one.  Mozart is always wonderful, and not easy!  I would choose no. 20, given those 2 choices--but what about no. 17 (K453) ?  I personally love that one, and it is actually a bit easier than the other two, though it doesn't sound any easier. 

Whatever you choose, good luck, and have fun!
Teresa

[hodi]

in my opinion - mozart 23.
all of its movements are excellent.
it has the most emotional 2nd movement of any mozart concerto.
and the 1st and 3rd movement are simply majestic.

brahms 1??
well, it's one of the most difficult piano concerti
it requires great musical maturity and complete technical mastery of the piano.
maybe you should wait a few years before tackling this monster (i tend to agree with your teacher)

[burstroman]

Why not give a superior performance of a Mozart Concerto than a forgettable performance of the Brahms?  Listen to your teacher.