Since childhood, Michael Brown has been inspired by composers who were also tremendous pianists and it has been his life's passion to explore both of these disciplines. While the list of musicians who fall into this category is long, three of the greatest composer-pianists include Ludwig van Beethoven, Felix Mendelssohn, and Leonard Bernstein, whose works are included in this album. Not only did these artists approach music from this dual perspective of a composer and performer, but their compositional craft was undoubtedly influenced by their relationship to the piano. Their music continues to surprise and exhilarate. Also, included are works by Michael Brown. Equally acclaimed as a pianist and composer, Michael Brown has been described as "one of the most refined of all pianist-composers" (International Piano) and "one of the leading figures in the current renaissance of performer-composers" (The New York Times). His unique artistry is reflected in his creative approach to programming that often interweaves the classics with contemporary works and his own compositions.