专辑简介

While some parts of Stephen Dodgson’s work have become relatively well-known, much of his output is known only partially and to a limited circle. His large output of music for harpsichord is the result of a long association with many of its leading exponents, with resulting requests and commissions, and has attracted a circle of admirers. By contrast, his equally distinctive and idiomatic writing for the piano has in only two instances been prompted by commissions. All the rest has arisen from purely personal impulses. This recording serves as an introduction to it. Understandably, a good deal of other piano music preceded No. l (1959). No.2 was commissioned by Thomas McIntosh, who gave the premiere at the Queen Elizabeth Hall, London in 1975. It was this work, in addition to several items of chamber music, which introduced Stephen Dodgson to Bernard Roberts. Their association was strengthened when an American admirer of Bernard Roberts commissioned No 3 (1983) especially for him. All subsequent sonatas, now stretching to No.6 (1997) have been premiered by Roberts, who has thereby become an important stimulus in their genesis. Stephen Dodgson was for many years a teacher at the Royal College of Music, London, where he had himself been a student post-war. For 40 years he has been a well-known reviewer/commentator on the radio in addition to supplying many scores for BBC drama productions over the years. He continues an active and still developing career as composer from his home in London. Bernard Roberts Bernard Roberts has long been acknowledged as one of Britain’s leading pianists. His repertoire ranges from the early classics to the great works of the 20th century, and his Beethoven interpretations have received particular acclaim. His highly praised recordings of the complete Beethoven Piano Sonatas are all available on the Nimbus label and featured recently on the Classic FM hit parade.