This is the fourth and final volume in
Koukl's survey of Martinu's 400 works for piano, and it contains the least well-known of his works for the instrument. But
Koukl shows no sign of boredom with Martinu's lesser achievements; in fact, he is deeply invested in them all. From the bright and bouncy Seven Czech Dances that open the disc through the solemn Adagio "In memoriam" and the spooky Procession of the Cats on Solstice Night to the gruff Prelude that closes it,
Koukl enjoys the thrill of discovery. Communicated here with virtuosity and consummate artistry, this disc is not for the Martinu neophyte, but listeners who already know his symphonies, ballets, and concertos will surely enjoy all four volumes of his piano music. Naxos' sound is crisp, close, and a bit hard in climaxes.