Mirage: Solid Piano Works by Stephen Dodgson

This release is the fourth collection of Stephen Dodgon's music on SOMM. So far the label has issued two volumes of songs and one of choral works. This album of piano music samples the full range of Dodgon's career. 

And most of the works are world-premiere recordings. I'm hoping there's at least one more volume of Dodgson's piano music planned. Because I found the music on this release quite appealing. 

One of the most interesting works is the 1953 Rondo in A-flat. It's available as a free bonus download for CD purchasers. But the Rondo is included on the digital and streaming versions of the album.

Its continually shifting meters give the Rondo a fluidity I really enjoyed. Osman Tack performs with a light dexterity that adds charm to an already appealing work. 

Dodgson wrote seven piano sonatas throughout his career. The last one, subtitled "The Loddon" is included in this program. The Basingstoke Concert Club commissioned the work in 2003.

The sonata is a well-crafted three-movement work. There's motivic development over the course of the sonata. Dodgson's manipulation of his material is both subtle and organic. 

Also included are four collections of short works. All show Dodgson's mastery of miniatures. And also his seemingly unbounded creative imagination. 

A welcome addition to this ongoing series. 

Mirage: The Piano Music of Stephen Dodgson
Osman Tack, piano
SOMM Recordings SOMMCD 0684