FIVE PIECES THAT CHANGED MY LIFE

Ravel: Piano Concerto in G Major (The Slow Movement)

I love Impressionistic composers. This movement is one of the most beautiful pieces of contemporary music. I also recorded this with the English Chamber Orchestra.

Tom Waits: “Johnsburg, Illinois”

The perfect example of a miniature ballad. It’s very short and totally contained, and the words are almost like a little poem. Musically, it’s just a very beautiful tune, very romantic, sad and almost from another era.

Queen: “Bohemian Rhapsody”

I think I was 10 when I first heard this. I was already studying classical piano and it was the first piece of pop music I heard that was so classical and yet so pop. Amazing guitar solo and vocals from the inimitable Freddie Mercury. A timeless pop anthem.

Sting: “Shape of My Heart”

This is my favourite Sting song. His voice is unique, it touches the soul. I was so thrilled when he offered to produce my first album, ONE.

Keith Jarrett: “All the Things You Are”

Jarrett is the pianist’s pianist – unique. He was classically trained, and when I first heard this masterclass in improvisation, it completely blew my mind. Such an inspiration.

“I LIKE THE IDEA OF CHANCE AND WHERE THINGS – A NOTE – WILL JUST FALL”