John Field

As one publication wrote, “Field’s star is currently shining brighter than ever, thanks in no small measure to the partnership of pianist Miceal O’Rourke and the Matthias Bamert-led London Mozart Players.” (The Lady) O’Rourke’s talent was admired by many other publications with comments such as “O’Rourke seems to have adopted the style of Field himself; he has a lovely touch and flow.” (American Record Guide) “O’Rourke’s delicate touch is ideal for conveying the charm of Field’s music,” (The Times) while Gramophone stated “all praise to those responsible...”

“O'Rourke and his partners capture Field's spirit and style to perfection, warmly recorded in a natural acoustic.” Gramophone Magazine, October 2008

"Sparkling performances from all concerned in a fine, well-recorded Field concerto series... Following up his two previous discs for Naxos of piano concertos by John Field, Benjamin Frith again proves an ideal soloist in attractive, decorative pieces... David Haslam and the Northern Sinfonia, the ever-understanding accompanists, are well-recorded too in the relatively small-scale acoustic." - Edward Greenfield, Gramophone, February 2002

"Once again Naxos scores with a little-known pianist, and the program includes the last of Field's Op. 1 sonatas that he wrote in 1801. It is in two movements but shows considerable influence by Clementi and Dussek. It is a polished, rather simple work. The balance of the disc completes the Nocturnes that began on 550761 (May/June), including the rarely heard Nocturne 18, which is actually a rondo. "They are beautifully played by the young British pianist Benjamin Frith. The recording is good and the notes are fine. All in all, this is an attractive bargain." - American Record Guide (Carl Bauman), September-October, 2000

“Staier produces feats of articulation that would be impossible on a concert grand and his energy proves infectious.” The Guardian

"O’Rourke is as sympathetic and sensitive an advocate of these rarities as one could wish for." Penguin Guide