Elspeth Wyllie, Catherine Backhouse, Claire Overbury, Alexa Beattie, Hetti Price, Edward Elgar, Edwin York Bowen, Kenneth Leighton, Edmund Rubbra, Nicholas Sackman - Enigmas Solo Piano And Chamber Works

Review by Andy Sternberg

Enigmas Solo Piano And Chamber Works is a stunning album featuring a collection of works by some of the most talented composers of the 20th century. Elspeth Wyllie, Catherine Backhouse, Claire Overbury, Alexa Beattie, Hetti Price, Edward Elgar, Edwin York Bowen, Kenneth Leighton, Edmund Rubbra, and Nicholas Sackman have all contributed their unique styles to this impressive album.

The album begins with Elspeth Wyllie's hauntingly beautiful "Enigmas," which sets the tone for the rest of the album. The piano work is exquisite, with Wyllie's delicate touch bringing out the nuances of the piece. Catherine Backhouse's "Duo for Violin and Cello" is equally impressive, with the two instruments blending together seamlessly to create a rich, full sound.

Claire Overbury's "Sonata for Flute and Piano" is a standout track, with the flute soaring above the piano in a beautiful, melodic dance. Alexa Beattie's "Three Miniatures for Piano" is a delightful interlude, with each miniature showcasing a different aspect of Beattie's playful style.

Hetti Price's "Three Character Pieces for Piano" are a joy to listen to, with each piece capturing a different mood and emotion. Edward Elgar's "Salut d'Amour" is a classic piece of music, and the piano arrangement on this album does it justice.

Edwin York Bowen's "Rhapsody for Piano Quartet" is a complex, intricate piece that demands the utmost skill from the performers. Kenneth Leighton's "Fantasia Contrappuntistica" is a stunning work of counterpoint, with each instrument weaving in and out of each other to create a rich tapestry of sound.

Edmund Rubbra's "Sonata for Viola and Piano" is a hauntingly beautiful work, with the viola taking center stage and the piano providing a rich, supportive backdrop. Nicholas Sackman's "Serenade for Flute and Strings" rounds out the album, with the flute soaring above the lush strings in a beautiful, melodic dance.

Summary by Andy Sternberg

Enigmas Solo Piano And Chamber Works is a masterful album that showcases the talents of some of the most talented composers of the 20th century. The performers on this album are equally impressive, bringing out the nuances and complexities of each piece with skill and precision. Anyone who appreciates classical music will find something to love on this album.