Overview

PHCD 105 pairs two major American works for solo piano, presenting Samuel Barber’s monumental Piano Sonata alongside Richard Cumming’s expansive Twenty‑Four Preludes. Written two decades apart, these pieces reveal contrasting yet complementary approaches to virtuosity, structure, and expressive language. Barber’s sonata, a cornerstone of mid‑century American piano literature, combines twelve‑tone elements with his unmistakable lyricism, while Cumming’s preludes explore a wide spectrum of pianistic color and style. This Phoenix USA edition highlights the artistry of John Browning, whose performances bring clarity, brilliance, and emotional depth to both works.

Composer: Samuel Barber
Composer: Richard Cumming
Pianist: John Browning
Catalog Number: PHCD 105

This Phoenix USA edition is sourced from archival materials and restored to highlight the clarity, power, and expressive range of these landmark American piano works.