This fine record is proof positive that what are today considered to be ‘smaller labels’ are in no way inferior to what used to be termed ‘the majors’: here is an intelligently-planned, wide-ranging disc of fine music for solo piano by four composers, varied in their ethnicity and period, with each work or set of works clearly chosen to appeal broadly to the same music-lover, in doing so broadening their knowledge and listening experience in a wholly positive manner.

Of the four composers chosen, it is the name of Lawrence Rose which will be the least-known, but his fine Fantasia for piano lies in now way outside of the broad spectrum of acceptance and genuine musical interest of the other three works here. He is rewarded with a performance of considerable insight and dedication, comments which apply throughout to the repertoire on this disc, and it is heartening to see an artist of Martin Cousin’s distinction presenting all four works (in the case of Rachmaninoff’s Opus 3, ‘set of works’) with the same artistic understanding and technical command they each require.

The recording quality is excellent, as is the presentation. This disc is thoroughly recommended.