George Walker’s international reputation as a composer and pianist was recognized with numerous commissions and awards, including a Pulitzer Prize in 1996. His piano music is colorful and brings to life unique musical soundscapes as heard in the cyclical Fourth Piano Sonata which alternates between sections of virtuoso muscularity and lyrical repose. The Piano Concerto integrates expansive Classical forms with inspiration derived from songs by Duke Ellington, something also cleverly hidden in Guido’s Hand. Walker concluded his impressive contribution to the modern repertoire with his passionate Fifth Piano Sonata – a work that packs monumental expressive range into an extremely concise span. Volume 1 of this two-volume complete edition can be heard on Naxos 8559916.

This second volume of George Walker’s piano music joins its predecessor on Naxos 8559916, released in April 2024, together forming a unique complete piano works edition. Including the rarely heard Piano Concerto, this is the first such recording done by one pianist. George Walker’s truly impressive Piano Concerto has not been recorded in more than 10 years, and this is only the third commercial recording available of this work.

Acclaimed by international critics, Steinway Artist Alexandre Dossin has already firmly established himself as an artist of the first rank, with awards for both First Prize and the Special Prize at the Martha Argerich International Piano Competition. Other awards include the Silver Medal in the Maria Callas Grand Prix and both the Third Prize and Special Prize at the Mozart International Piano Competition, among many international and national accolades received throughout his career.