Michael Houstoun is New Zealand’s most respected and loved classical musician. His commitment to performing New Zealand repertoire has led to paths crossing with the Rattle label on numerous occasions over the years, but with this recording both Michael and Rattle have realised a shared dream.
Michael performed much of Douglas Lilburn's piano music in the theatre production of Rita and Douglas (in which he shared the stage with Jennifer Ward-Lealand for the entire performance), through which he re-connected with the music of New Zealand's most highly-lauded composer.
The programme chosen for this album is a selection of Michael's personal Lilburn favourites, and the result is an inspired (and inspiring) celebration of some of this country’s finest piano music played by one of our greatest living musicians. Beautifully produced and recorded by Kenneth Young and Steve Garden respectively, Lilburn is sure to widely recognised as a landmark recording.
Rattle Records have also raised the bar with the presentation of this album (and others appearing on this release sheet) a with a beautifully printed hard-backed CD cover, and extensive liner notes and photographs.