This delightful disc of favorite – and occasionally unfamiliar – piano music played by pianist Philip Martin fulfills several functions: it is, first and foremost, a collection of ‘personal choice’ encore pieces, some of which are amongst the world’s favorite piano music, with others coming into the unjustly neglected genre, all of which have a special affection in Philip’s comprehensive repertoire. Secondly, we encounter the art of this much-admired Irish musician as a composer, whose own music possesses an individuality and immediacy of appeal that confirms his qualities as a musical communicator to his audience. And finally (although it is not ‘final’!), this exceptionally well-filled album is released as Philip Martin prepares coincidentally to celebrate his 70th birthday and 50 years in the music profession with a wide-ranging selection that indicates the range and artistry of this truly international musician.
