Gabriela Montero's debut orchestral recording features the world premiere of her first formal composition, Ex Patria, as well as her first concerto recording, Rachmaninov's Second Piano Concerto. Montero is a passionate advocate for the people of her native Venezuela and a vocal opponent of the Chavist government. It was here that she found her inspiration as she set down to write her Opus 1. The album marks an important point in the evolution of Montero's career. Long acclaimed as a pianist noted for her thrilling improvisations, Montero now takes her place amongst and pays homage to the great tradition of composer/performers, of which Rachmaninov is one of the most enduring exponents.