The intimacy and variety of Bernstein’s solo piano works burst forth passionately.

Leonard Bernstein’s works for piano are all collected here, including works unpublished and previously unrecorded. Including many miniatures written as tributes, gifts and memorials to friends and family, these pieces range across Bernstein’s composing career and reflect his unique musical style and character.

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REVIEW:

This two disc set of miniatures represents all his works for solo piano, including works previously unpublished. Pianist Leann Osterkamp is a performer, scholar and educator who is an acknowledged expert on the music of Leonard Bernstein.

Non Troppo Presto is a joyous romp that is Lennie at his most exuberant. His only Sonata for Piano of 1938 is an exercise in modern experimentation for the young composer—powerful, dissonant and contemplative. In Memoriam Helen Coates (his early piano teacher and longtime private secretary) is a moving melody later used in Bernstein’s Mass. Leann Osterkamp communicates these miniatures with verve, warmth, and spirit that is quintessential Bernstein.

– Audiophile Audition (audaud.com)