Steven Osborne

MICHAEL DRAKE

This was an illuminating recital and the first of two largely featuring the sonatas of Michael Tippett in his centenary year.

They all have the object of connecting with the audience and the first is a passive, though disparate work, to which Steven Osborne brought much colour and continuity as it danced along its course.

Twenty-five years later, in 1962, the connections have changed for the Second Sonata. Although more dynamic and powerful the colour was retained, but this time much darker in general, with peaks and troughs more loosely constructed - but that was the 1960s.

In contrast, quieter hues were the mainstay of a Sonatine by Ravel which followed the distinctive jazzy and smoky Three Preludes of Gershwin.

Jazz undertones also in Charles Ives' Three Page Sonata after an uncompromising opening before Bartok's Five Pieces from Mikrokosmos were graphically portrayed by the recitalist.

Inevitably there is competition from other events but if you enjoy solo piano the second recital is tonight.

Mike Drake