Alexis Ffrench's new release Dreamland: 'warming the soul in troubled times'

Released this week, Scala Radio's very own Alexis Ffrench's latest album Dreamland aptly celebrates the piano on World Piano Day with a selection of wistful and soulful tracks underpinned with occasional string accompaniment.

The title track Dreamland is a particular favourite of mine. Images of a merry-go-round spring to mind - sweet and playful with a much-appreciated sense of innocence about it that warms the soul in troubled times.

Rivers has a stillness about it that smoothes out the edges too.

The tenth track - Shine - begins with a sunny weekend morning vibe (the sun is out as I'm writing this) and an infectious sense of gentle optimism. The folk violin around one minute drives that mood on, so too the plucked bass and Dreamland trademark close string accompaniment around 2'20" - the kind of musical euphoria that makes you want to join hands with the person nearest to you and say 'I've got your back.'

You can buy Alexis Ffrench's Dreamland in multiple formats via his official store.

Earlier this week, the Scala Digital Team spoke to Alexis Ffrench about his love of classical music, and his work at the piano.

What was the first piece of classical music you remember hearing?

I remember hearing Mozart Symphony no. 40 at home, listening to my parents’ records as a young boy. I was instantly transported to a different world, and knew I wanted to hear more.

Of all the instruments, what drew you to the piano?

There wasn’t an exact moment in my childhood that drew me to the piano; it has always been there from the beginning. I have very early memories of listening to music, and feeling that the piano was calling me.

When you're writing how do you know when you reach the point that a track you're writing is complete?

I know a track is complete, when I feel that it couldn’t have been written any other way. It feels true and honest. There’s an element of spiritual knowingness, combined with the structure of a mathematical equation.

What does 'classical music for modern life' mean to you?

To me it means classical music being a relevant, living, breathing, adaptable genre that acts as an antidote to our busy lifestyles.

What classical tracks have you especially connected with over the past couple of weeks?

I feel connected with music of all genres, but recently I’ve been listening to ‘Not Our First Goat Rodeo’ by Yo-Yo Ma, Stuart Duncan, Edgar Meyer and Chris Thile.

Listen to Alexis Ffrench on Scala Radio from 3pm on Sundays.

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