A fellow countryman of John Field's, Míceál O'Rourke performs on this 2-CD recital with intelligence and taste, much of the repertoire not otherwise available. A large amount of this music has the quiet charm one associates with the work of this delightful early-eighteenth century virtuoso Irish pianist and composer, and the collection includes all four surviving sonatas, complemented with a generous miscellany of rarely recorded or performed miniatures. Field was born a dozen years after Beethoven and these delightful pieces clearly show Beethoven's influence, as well as more than a hint of Mozart and Haydn. Nonetheless, they have a character of their own, especially in the innovative use of Irish folk tunes. For those who like piano music of the early nineteen century, this unusual repertoire will constitute a most enjoyable discovery. It makes an ideal introduction to Field's music as O'Rourke's stylish performances do full justice to the lovely melodies and general charm of the works.
