What were the motivations/inspirations for Rachmaninoff's 2nd concerto?
Sergei Rachmaninoff composed his Second Piano Concerto in 1901-1902, and it was premiered in Moscow in the same year. Rachmaninoff was motivated to write this concerto in response to the disappointment he felt with his first symphony, which had received negative reviews and was not well received by audiences.

The inspiration for the concerto came from Rachmaninoff's love for virtuoso piano playing and his desire to create a work that would showcase his own abilities as a pianist. The concerto is known for its sweeping melodies, complex harmonies, and virtuosic piano writing. The first movement is characterized by a lyrical and expressive theme that is developed throughout the movement. The second movement is a lyrical intermezzo, while the third movement is a brisk and virtuosic finale.