This recital consists of works by four New York-based composers—all writing in their thirties—which stride across the century from 1930 to 1991. Although all four composers are probably better known for works using other instrumental combinations, these piano pieces were of crucial, even seminal importance in their development and show them at the height of their powers—their voices fully 'broken'.

Although none of them professional pianists, they write for the instrument with consummate insight and invention. Notwithstanding their modernity, there is always a respect for the piano here: an understanding of its tradition, a love for its sonority.