This delightful disc of favourite – and occasionally unfamiliar – piano music played by pianist Philip Martin fulfils several functions: it is, first and foremost, a collection of ‘personal choice’ encore pieces, some of which are amongst the world’s favourite piano music, with others coming into the unjustly neglected genre, all of which have a special affection in Philip’s comprehensive repertoire. Secondly, we encounter the art of this much-admired Irish musician as a composer, whose own music possesses an individuality and immediacy of appeal that confirms his qualities as a musical communicator to his audience. And finally (although it is not ‘final’!), this exceptionally well-filled CD is released as Philip Martin prepares coincidentally to celebrate his 70th birthday and 50 years in the music profession with a wide-ranging selection that indicates the range and artistry of this truly international musician.

Philip was born in Dublin but soon made his mark internationally, establishing and cementing a reputation notable for his championship of several further unjustly neglected works, amongst them the Samuel Barber Piano Concerto – of which Philip gave both the French and Irish premieres – and Britten’s Diversions on a Theme for piano left hand and orchestra. Philip’s appearances in France have reinforced his knowledge, understanding and love for French piano music; it was with Britten’s masterpiece that Philip made his much-praised Proms debut in 1985 at the Royal Albert Hall with the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain, being invited back two years later to play Rachmaninov’s Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini.

This enjoyable disc is sure to win many more friends for this well-loved artist.