The Song of Gwyn ap Nudd Before the outbreak of the First World War, London experienced a period in which numerous international pianists, such as d’Albert, Busoni, and von Pachmann, performed frequently. Romantic piano concertos enjoyed great popularity; compositions by Tchaikovsky, Brahms, and Grieg were regularly performed towards the end of the 19th century. British composers were inspired by these models and created their own Romantic piano concertos between 1895 and 1915. Joseph Holbrooke, who rose from humble beginnings through perseverance and talent, achieved remarkable success with works such as "The Song of Gwyn ap Nudd."
Holbrooke's musical career began in Croydon, led him to the Royal Academy of Music, and produced important compositions such as "The Raven" and "The Viking." Conductors like Thomas Beecham promoted his work; nevertheless, Holbrooke's music fell into obscurity after the Second World War. Despite everything, occasional performances still took place, for example in 1910, when Bernhard Richter played Holbrooke's piano concerto under Holbrooke's direction. Holbrooke also composed several operas, including "The Cauldron of Annwyn." Even in earlier years, when he became known for his tone poems, Holbrooke wrote piano works such as "Poème" and the "Piano Concerto Dramatique."
Haydn Wood, born on the Isle of Man, composed a large-scale piano concerto, which premiered in London in 1909. After this success, Wood increasingly turned to light music and popular songs, so his concerto temporarily fell into obscurity. It was not until 1937, and later again, that it was broadcast on the radio. The three-movement concerto begins with an extensive orchestral prelude, continues with a tranquil Andante, and concludes with a multifaceted finale distinguished by impressive piano passages.