Notes

I have often been asked “what kind of music do you write?” to which I answer “I don’t know, I just write it.” I compose descriptive music, like “musical paintings” that best describe my impressions of the subject matter. These descriptions are expressed in the pieces’ titles.

I don’t consider myself as belonging to any specific musical tradition, nor do I try to belong. All I want to do is create a musical and emotional description of exactly what I’m feeling. If it resembles the musical styles of other composers or periods, it is totally by accident. I purely and simply want to express myself in a way that says it all and makes sense to me.

I don’t seek or want the approval of musicologists & music academics. I’m a retired chef who simply wants to express myself through music for ordinary people just like me.

The original conception of both Volumes 1 & 2 that I wrote for piano was an expression of me looking reflectively and nostalgically back on my past life which has been a wonderful mixed bag. As such, these pieces can best be described as very personal.

— Mark John McEncroe