Hywel Davies

Gradations

Gradations is music of variety, of change, of progression, of growing up, even. Mozart's first keyboard minuets are here, as is a pair of Marcello sonatas. A sonatina by Clementi sits alongside 'Kaleidoscope' by Benjamin Lees. Bartók and Bach knew all about children's keyboard development and are each represented by absolute gems. César Franck's Doll's Lament and Kabalevsky's My stubborn little brother represent more negative childhood emotions, but in the main this is music of happiness and fun. Piano Moods is an exciting new piano series from Boosey & Hawkes. Each volume is devoted to a particular mood. The pieces chosen draw on Boosey & Hawkes' extensive collection of wonderful music as well as lesser-known gems from the past - some of them from surprising sources - and newly composed works.