Ashley Wass (piano)

Alwyn’s approach to writing for the piano was essentially that of a romantic, born out of the tradition exemplified by Liszt and Rachmaninov, through to the impressionism inherent in the music of Debussy and Ravel. Influences aside, however, Alwyn found his own individual way in writing for the piano, as can be heard from the works presented here.

His intuitive writing for the instrument resulted not just in virtuoso pieces for the concert hall, but also sensitive miniatures of a highly expressive nature, along with many educational pieces for examination purposes.

As with the previous volume of piano music (8.570359) examples of all these will be found on this recording.

“It's a treat to be able to hail a new version of comparable charisma and temperament from Ashley Wass….With his immaculate touch, subtle range of colour and commanding technique, Wass draws every ounce of poetry from [the music].” Gramophone on Vol. 1

“Wass achieves the same wonders with Alwyn (1905-85) as he did earlier this year with Frank Bridge…. A charming disc.”
Financial Times