Piano Journal EPTA Magazine Issue 96, London 2012

It is always fun to see how a contemporary composer deals with variations on an ever-popular theme. This unusual piano work is no exception, openig and closing with the well-known Liberty Bell theme and with nine semi-dissonant variations sandwiched inbetween. Each of the variations covers a different technical aspect while disguising the theme throughout. The first variation involves calm, smooth legato playing with slow left hand chords, the second introduces lively semiquavers in each hand, the third becomes much more lively with leaping chords all over the keyboard, the fifth and sixth are calm and dreamy, with the tempo and rhythmic drive increasing through the final three variations. Inevitably, the last is the most challenging with its perpetuo moto nature before resuming ist lively theme to close . . . The harmonies are often dissonant, and yet the theme is just perceptible within these, and the dynamic contrasts are sudden and frequent adding to the rhythmic excitement and providing extra energy and propelling motion. Advanced students will have fun romping through this contemporary rendition of an old favourite." NL