Reviews of music by the English composer John Pickard (b. 1963) have stated that ‘he has the technique and the temperament to emerge as one of the great symphonists of the 21st century’, even that ‘his place among the greats is secure’.

This conspectus of his chamber music traces the evolution of his style over two decades, from the Piano Trio of 1990 to Snowbound of 2010.

These works revealing a powerful rhythmic drive, a feeling for toughly argued drama and a poetic sensitivity to atmosphere among the most prominent characteristics of Pickard’s music.

Contents:
[1-3] Piano Trio (1990)
Rupert Marshall-Luck (violin), Sophie Harris (cello), Matthew Rickard (piano)

[4] Insomnia for Violin and Piano (1997)
Rupert Marshall-Luck (violin), Matthew Rickard (piano)

[5] Chaconne for Solo Viola (1998)
Rupert Marshall-Luck (viola)

[6-7] Valedictions for Cello and Piano (2000)
Sophie Harris (cello), Matthew Rickard (piano)

[8-10] Sonata for Violin and Piano (2004)
Rupert Marshall-Luck (violin), Matthew Rickard (piano)

[11] Snowbound for Bass Clarinet, Cello and Piano (2010)
Sophie Harris (cello), Ian Mitchell (bass clarinet), Matthew Rickard (piano)