Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of John Ireland's piano works with this captivating collection, released in 1999 under the Naxos label. Spanning a total of 21 tracks and over an hour and ten minutes of music, this album offers a comprehensive journey through Ireland's diverse compositions, showcasing his remarkable talent and versatility.
The album opens with the lively "Merry Andrew" and "The Towing Path," setting the stage for a delightful exploration of Ireland's musical landscape. The "Rhapsody" follows, a piece that highlights Ireland's ability to blend lyricism and drama in a single composition. The album also features a selection of Ireland's shorter works, including the charming "2 Pieces (1925)" and the evocative "Decorations" suite, which includes pieces like "The Island Spell" and "Moon-Glade."
A significant portion of the album is dedicated to Ireland's "Leaves from a Child's Sketchbook," a collection of pieces that capture the innocence and wonder of childhood. These tracks, such as "By the Mere" and "In the Meadows," are perfect examples of Ireland's ability to evoke vivid imagery and emotion through his music.
The album also includes Ireland's "Piano Sonatina," a three-movement work that showcases his mastery of classical forms. The sonatina's "Moderato," "Quasi lento," and "Rondo. Ritmico, non troppo allegro" movements offer a satisfying blend of structure and expressiveness.
Finally, the album concludes with the "3 Pastels" and "2 Pieces (1929)" suites, which include gems like "A Grecian Lad," "The Boy Bishop," and "February's Child." These pieces demonstrate Ireland's ability to create evocative moods and atmospheres, making them a fitting end to this captivating collection.
Whether you're a longtime fan of John Ireland or a newcomer to his music, this album offers a rewarding exploration of his piano works. With its diverse selection of pieces and high-quality performances, it's a valuable addition to any classical music lover's collection.
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