John Ireland - Ireland, J.: Piano Works, Vol. 3 - Piano Sonata / Preludes / Green Ways (LP)

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of John Ireland's piano works with this captivating album, released in 2008 under the Naxos label. Spanning a little over an hour, this collection showcases Ireland's mastery of the piano, offering a diverse range of pieces that highlight his unique compositional style.

The album opens with the three-movement Piano Sonata, a substantial work that demonstrates Ireland's ability to blend lyrical melodies with intricate contrapuntal writing. Following the sonata, the four Preludes offer a series of concise, evocative pieces, each with its own distinct character. From the haunting "The Undertone" to the exuberant "Fire of Spring," these preludes provide a fascinating glimpse into Ireland's imaginative musical language.

The album also features the three-movement suite Green Ways, inspired by the natural world. Each movement is named after a different tree or plant, and Ireland's music beautifully captures the essence of each one. The album concludes with a selection of shorter pieces, including the evocative "Amberley Wild Brooks" and the lively "We'll to the Woods No More: III. Spring will not wait."

Throughout the album, pianist John Lenehan delivers a compelling performance, bringing out the full range of colors and emotions in Ireland's music. Whether you're a longtime fan of John Ireland or a newcomer to his works, this album is sure to provide a rewarding and enjoyable listening experience.