Music by John Rose
John Rose writes music which embraces a post-modern freedom – allowing him to build tonal and memorable music often with a strong neo-baroque sound, strongly inspired by Bach – although Shostakovich is another source of inspiration. This is not to limit his work which is varied and rich, but emphasises his distinctive linear style.
Hopefully his work will become better known as his musical legacy deserves recognition.
Track Listing
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John Rose:
- Prelude and Fugue, Op.20a (4:51)
- Prelude and Two Fugues, Op. 20b (10:50)
- Essay on DSCH, Op. 7 (11:13)
- String Quartet No. 2, Op. 17 (26:06)
Reviews
“This is a generously timed and attractively presented CD. The ‘Essay on DSCH’ is sonorous and gritty by turns, extremely well written for the piano in a style that will evoke Tippett in some listeners’ minds. It is a compelling work to which one wants to return. As for the performances, Robert Melling plays all three [piano] works with what appears to be total mastery and conviction. [The First Quartet] confirms the impression of a composer of great seriousness, uninterested in surface glamour and who expects his listeners to work at the music. Both [quartets] receive fine performances from the Edinburgh Quartet. This is a fine disc of uncompromising music from a little known composer. I recommend it to all those who like to stray from the beaten track.
” —William Hedley
“All the works on this disc are substantial and repay careful listening. Well worth investigating.
” —Jeremy Marchant
“This new recording may well be your cup of tea. Pianist Robert Melling and the Edinburgh Quartet mirror the music’s clear intent and deliver a focused account.
” —Jean-Yves Duperron
