Nielsen’s piano works are among the most original and characteristic in the repertoire. There is no mistaking his
idiosyncratic musical voice, his sense of joy of discovery and invention, and spirit of imagination and adventure.
Nielsen’s complete piano music encompasses the full diversity and range of his creative output. Though he never
aspired to brilliance as a performer, Nielsen’s piano works are nevertheless marked by his intimate knowledge of the
instrument and his awareness of the its creative and expressive capabilities. From the symbolist-inspired music of the
1890s to the highly modernist Three Pieces, these works constantly attest to the richness of his imaginative vision.
“Carl Nielsen's piano music is not the best known aspect of his output, so Martin Roscoe's marvellously played survey provides a valuable insight. There are mature works, such as the Suite and the Theme and Variations, that can stand beside his bigger orchestral pieces, but also a revealing collection of Piano Music for Young and Old - 24 "studies" in all the keys that in their quirkiness never sound less than echt-Nielsen.” The Telegraph, 7th June 2008
“One or two works here – A Dream About Silent Night and the Festival Prelude – would not have been missed had they not been included. Yet the Symphonic Suite, Op 8; the Chaconne, Op 32; the magnificent Theme and Variations, Op 40; the Suite, Op 45; and the late, posthumously published Three Piano Pieces, Op 59, are powerful, poetic, original in both idea and structure, widely varied in mood, impressively organic and as important in their way as any of Nielsen’s remarkable symphonies. Martin Roscoe’s technique withstands everything that the composer throws at it. He obviously believes in every note, as well he might.” Sunday Times, 1st June 2008 ****
“The suite is not only Nielsen's greatest keyboard work but arguably the mightiest ever written in Scandinavia. Martin Roscoe is right inside this music and guides us through its marvels with great subtlety and authority.” BBC Music Magazine, July 2008 *****
“Roscoe is famed for his touch and his playings delicacy and finesse is evident throughout.” Gramophone Magazine, September 2008
BBC Music Magazine
