The 18 Nocturnes by John Field (1782-1837) stand as timeless gems in the piano repertoire. An Irish composer and pianist, Field's works represent a bridge between the classical and romantic eras; he is often credited with pioneering the Nocturne, a genre later made famous by Chopin. Field's Nocturnes are characterized by their dreamy, introspective, and lyrical nature. They are musical paintings of the night, each piece a delicate, emotional journey through the moonlit landscapes of the heart. His innovative use of the sustaining pedal and gentle, singing melodies create a unique atmosphere. The Nocturnes are not virtuosic showcases but rather intimate expressions of emotion. They provide pianists with an opportunity to explore delicate phrasing and nuanced dynamics, demanding both technical precision and deep emotional connection. Notable examples include Nocturne No. 2 in C Minor, a haunting piece that inspired later composers like Chopin, and Nocturne No. 5 in B-flat Major, with its tender, cascading arpeggios. Played by the young English pianist Tyler Hay, whose recordings for Piano Classics with works by Liszt (PCL10138), John Ogdon (PCL10132), Kalkbrenner (PCL10190) made his name as one of the most remarkable pianists of his generation. "Tyler Hay impresses me immensely. He is a prize-winning product of the Purcell School, the Royal Northern College of music and the Royal College of Music. His technique is more than a match for everything on offer here, and he combines this with a subtle sense of rubato, a strong stylistic sense and real engagement with the music. I hope to hear more of him." (Musicweb).
