Bernard Stevens: Works for Piano (2005)

While the musical establishment of the mid-twentieth century focused its attention on the most controversial composers of the avant-garde, British composer Bernard Stevens quietly pursued a much more conservative course that brought him little fame and less fortune. However, time has brought Stevens some posthumous recognition; though his works are not firmly established in the repertoire, recordings of his music are on the rise, suggesting that his reputation will eventually be secured. Stylistically, the keyboard pieces ... Read More

While the musical establishment of the mid-twentieth century focused its attention on the most controversial composers of the avant-garde, British composer Bernard Stevens quietly pursued a much more conservative course that brought him little fame and less fortune. However, time has brought Stevens some posthumous recognition; though his works are not firmly established in the repertoire, recordings of his music are on the rise, suggesting that his reputation will eventually be secured. Stylistically, the keyboard pieces on this double disc from Dutton are quite hard to pin down, because Stevens usually composed without intentionally following schools or imitating fashions; yet of any identifiable models, he most closely resembles Hindemith in his workmanlike counterpoint, rugged harmonies, and pragmatic, cerebral treatment of classical forms. In this regard, some listeners will find the substantial compositions of the first disc to be coherent and well crafted, though also a bit dry and academic;... Read Less