Johann Peter Pixis (1788-1874) and Sigismond Thalberg (1812-1871) were pianist-composers whom posterity has relegated to minor figures on the fringe of Liszt's circle. They were big in their day, however. Many considered Thalberg to be Liszt's main rival. Pixis, Liszt's collaborator on one occasion, was also Thalberg's teacher. Listening to these works, however, you understand their comparative neglect. Pixis's Concerto in C and Concertino in E Flat have great charm, but not much drama. Thalberg's awesomely difficult Concerto in F minor is full of Lisztian virtuosity but lacks his sensitivity. Directing the Tasmanian Symphony from the keyboard, Howard Shelley gives us fine performances. There's exquisite filigree in the Pixis, while the Thalberg has swagger and panache in spades.