While there were often many levels of action going on simultaneously, every line was beautifully distinct. Using the pedals to tune two strings to the same pitch often resulted in certain striking effects and turns of phrase. ...The middle Nocturne section modulated fluidly from one exotic place to the next, while the final Sun Dance was a sparkling, rhythmically engaging piece that bordered on flamenco.
William Mathias was born in Whitland, Dyfed. He studied at the University College of Wales, and subsequently at the Royal Academy of Music. From 1970-1988 he was Head of the Music Department at the University College of North Wales, Bangor. Mathias musical language embraced both instrumental and vocal forms with equal success, and he addressed a large and varied audience both in Britain and abroad. He was also known as a conductor and pianist, and gave or directed
many premières of his own works. He was made CBE in the 1985 New Year's Honours. In 1992, the year of his death, Nimbus Records embarked upon a series of recordings of his major works.
