JÓHANNSSON Piano Works - From Englabörn / Alice Sara Ott | Deutsche Grammophon

Pianist Alice Sara Ott releases the second EP of piano transcriptions of famous works by late Icelandic composer Jóhann Jóhannsson. Piano Works – From Englabörn features piano interpretations of works from Jóhannsson’s first solo studio album Englabörn. These premiere recordings of the piano scores published recently by Faber Music are hauntingly beautiful interpretations that capture the essence of Jóhannsson’s music.   

“What’s so incredible about Jóhannsson’s music,” says 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 and leading up to the release of a full album featuring the composer’s most famous works next year, Ott has now released two digital EPs. The first EP focusing on Jóhannsson’s film music was released on 7 November.