JÓHANNSSON Piano Works / Alice Sara Ott | Deutsche Grammophon

On her upcoming album, pianist Alice Sara Ott presents world premiere recordings of piano transcriptions of late Icelandic composer Jóhann Jóhannsson’s most famous works. It includes some of Jóhannsson’s iconic works from different films as well as from his studio albums, including Orphée and Englabörn. Ott’s interpretations capture the essence of the composer’s hauntingly beautiful music.     

Though Ott never met Jóhannsson, she had always loved his music. In preparing for this unique project, she spoke to several of his friends and colleagues to gain greater insight into his work and processes: “As I worked on these pieces – internalising the musical architecture, shapes and language of Jóhann’s music – it actually felt like a very personal dialogue with him.”   

“What’s so incredible about Jóhannsson’s music,” concludes Ott, “is how his compositions, originally written for larger ensembles and different instruments, translate so beautifully to the piano. Within this more focused and intimate sound world, the writing reveals hidden nuances and enhances the purity and clarity that are so intrinsic to his music.”  

As part of the overarching project, Ott has released two digital EPs, leading up to the release of the full album next year: The first EP focuses on Jóhannsson’s film music, and the second EP features piano transcriptions of the composer’s first solo studio album Englabörn.