As a committed socialist (he was a member of the Communist Party), the Portuguese composer Fernando Lopes-Graça (1906–94) faced repression from Salazar’s right-wing dictatorship. His works were banned and he was stripped of his official positions. Lopes-Graça responded in music, evolving a feisty, wiry Bartókian style that drew on Portuguese folk-music.

This recording features Lopes-Graça’s own Bechstein piano, played by Olga Prats, who worked closely with him. Olga Prats has long been considered one of the foremost interpreters of Portuguese piano music, and that of Fernando Lopes‐Graça in particular. She has a distinguished record as performer, in chamber music as well as as a soloist and a teacher. She has worked closely with many leading composers and is the dedicatee of a number of works. She gave her debut recital in 1952 and thus has been active as a musician for over 60 years.

The Quarteto Lopes-Graça was formed at the National Conservatory School of Music in Lisbon by four of its teachers with outstanding solo and chamber careers, and has premiered the works of a number of major Portuguese composers.