Paul Lewis – Impromptu (Piano)

The four volumes of Steingold Graded Pieces for piano were originally written as a teaching aid, and also for the enjoyment of piano students. Each volume introduces a number of musical styles, from classical to modern, folk to jazz. All the pieces are colourful and imaginative, and every page offers new surprises. The books are a musical treasure chest into which pianists from beginners to advanced level might dip and find a variety of items, from the stillness of a solo meditation to the fireworks of a party piece! Because they were written as a teaching aid they also present the pianist with practice and preparation in the technical and musical aspects required for the Associated Boards of the Royal School of Music Examinations from Grade 1 through to Grade 8. The first four pieces of this third volume were included in the London College of Music exam syllabus from 1998 to 2009 for grade 5, while the last three pieces were included for grade 6.

This charming four movement work, that aptly sounds like the title, is heavily influenced by twentieth century masters. The first movement dances between key signatures, creating the feeling of puppets not altogether in control of their faculties, while the second movement is unashamedly intense in character. The third movement includes some very nice jazz-like voicing at the beginning of the movement, with Carr using all the piano registers to add depth and colour. The Latin flavour of the final movement is a total departure from the previous three movements, bringing the ear back to the ballet again, this time in a fiery dance. The asymmetrical rhythms, shifting time signatures and registers, and the once-again intense chromatics jar us back to the herky-jerky puppets as they summon their ersatz dance skills. For the advanced intermediate performer as well as seasoned professionals.

A lovely suite of pieces based on images of different animals. Written for Sally Mays and broadcast by her on ABC. For studios and schools.