Passing an hour in the company of Percy Grainger’s music is always a delight. The Bilder Duo offer a program of some of his most popular works in versions for piano four-hands and for two pianos: Shepherd’s Hey, Country Gardens, Lincolnshire Posy. The folk tunes, the homages to Grieg, the wit and whimsy and unexpected emotional import, are all here in strength.

As a ‘greatest hits’ album of Grainger for two pianists, this stands alone.

This music rarely fails to bring a smile to listeners. It is creative, well-crafted, and eminently listenable on many levels. Whether casual music floating through your house on a Saturday morning or something to supply a detailed example of masterly two-piano writing, this is an extremely well-chosen and well-played program. The two pianists change positions (primo and secondo) and parts all through the program…both fine pianists. Their ensemble, especially in this folk-based music with its flexible tempos, is impeccable.

Four hands at one or two pianos despatch folksy Grainger and his Gershwin fantasy with lovely razor clarity… © BBC Music Magazine