Leopold Koželuch, an eminent contemporary of Mozart and at the time considered by many to be the superior composer, was one of the first champions of the fortepiano, and his compositions for the instrument enshrined the highest qualities of Viennese style.

Over nearly four decades his sonatas show progressive development, embracing lyrical melodies, delightful harmonic shifts, and foretastes of Romantic drama. His sequence of sonatas can be judged worthy to stand alongside those of Haydn, Dussek, Clementi and Mozart, and as a precursor to those of Beethoven.

Kemp English is one of New Zealand’s leading keyboard performers. Much in demand as a solo organist, collaborative pianist and specialist fortepiano exponent, he displays an easy versatility across a diverse range of styles and periods. His solo CDs showcase him both as a fortepianist and concert organist, while the discs he has recorded with violin duo partner Robin Wilson explore repertoire that ranges from easy-listening to mainstream classical.

World premiere recordings of all but the Piano Sonata in C Minor, op.2 no.3.