The idea of reading at sight on a musical instrument in public, although highly imaginitive in concept, could be considered a very daunting prospect. However, when so much enthusiasm and support abounds it was always going to be a very successful event and indeed this was the case when Mr Raby's inspired compositions, written for the occasion, were given their first outing. The evening's masterclass was conducted in a similar atmosphere with students giving their best in works by Couperin, Mozart, Beethoven, Debussy and others. I found the students most responsive and willing to experiment with new ideas. The masterclass is wonderful educational device, whether it be musical or in any other discipline, and it is worth mentioning that when one is invited to direct such an event often one learns as much as one gives; it is indeed an educational experience for all to share.

I wish the students all the best in future musical endeavours and I look forward to returning some day.

Alan MacLean

Alan MacLean graduated from the Royal Scottish Academy of Music in 1978, receiving the award for the most outstanding student. After further study with internationally renowned pianists, including Karl Schnabel, he embarked upon a career which has included solo and concerto performances throughout the UK, recordings and broadcasts on radio and television. He is much in demand as a chamber musician, having played with many of the country's leading instrumentalists, and recently has appeared at the Malvern, Hailes, Three Choirs and Cheltenham International Festivals.

In the mid-nineties, Albany Records approached Alan MacLean and Peter Lawson with the idea of exploring the wealth of twentieth century music written for piano duet. Their first recording, English Music for Piano Duet, received critical acclaim and a Disc of the Year nomination, moving one critic to write, “I cannot recall ever hearing a piano duo with such perfect unanimity before.” Similar accolades followed on release of their second album, British Music for Piano Duet: “Peter Lawson and Alan MacLean appear to be in total sympathy not just with one another, but with all the music they play.”  (International Record Review)

His most recent venture was a recording of John Field’s Concertino for Piano and Strings, with the Royal Ballet Sinfonia.

After 20 years as Head of Keyboard Studies at The Cheltenham Ladies’ College, Alan left to develop further a number of musical projects. He gives master classes for young pianists and chamber music players, and regularly speaks and adjudicates at a wide range of music events.