Recently released on the Signum label is Welsh pianist Llyr Williams' second solo recording. As the title suggests, the theme that links the works by Mussorgsky, Liszt and Debussy is one of symbolism and the ability of composers to convey a particular scene or image through their writing. The programme begins with a fine account of Mussorgsky's Pictures At An Exhibition. In many ways it is a four-square appoach, yet Williams manages to convey that something 'extra' that elevates this reading. Because of the space he gives to each of the movements and because he allows the music to speak for itself, I found his interpretation thoroughly absorbing. His Wigmore Hall performance last year prompted this response from one critic: '...And few could have expected his performance of Mussorgsky's Pictures to be so overwhelming. There wasn't a finger out of place all evening, and the dramatic plotting was spot on...' Debussy's Estampes follows this; I was particularly impressed by the emotive performance of the Spanish-inspired La soiree dans Grenade which is offset beautifully by a stunning account of Jardins sous la pluie. Three pieces by Liszt complete the recital. During the elegiac and heartfelt reading of Les Jeux d'eau a la Villa d'Este, one of the most virtuosic pieces Liszt wrote, I found myself hanging on every note - Williams' sense of line and phrasing is remarkable. The concluding work by Liszt, Ave Maria, Die Glocken von Rom, is an expansive and most beautiful piece, the mood captured magically by Williams. It builds to a grand climax that descends to a contemplative Amen. I'll definitely be keeping an eye out for more from this pianist.

Reviewed by Dawn Cooke