Drawing on popular music and minimalism of the late 20th c. while recalling the 19th c. Romantic tradition, composer and pianist Scott Pender explores the expressive natures of four instruments – piano, violin, viola, and cello – on his debut solo Navona release, 88 12. The Rhapsody, Elegy and Finale is a virtuosic study in contrasting mood and texture. The Viola Sonata is a work of rhythmic pulse and intensity, while the deeply lyrical Cello Sonata is a work of sweeping dramatic gesture. The string trio Veil of Ignorance provides three differing approaches to the same thematic material.