Captain Sharpe's Mission

What a fun and exciting piece—written well and coherently and a great piece for more advanced players who are feeling like they want to do something outside of the “classical-realm.”

When I first found "Captain Sharpe's Mission" a few years ago, I was enthralled! The fascinating rhythms keep the listener in suspense until the piece's dramatic conclusion. Unfortunately, at the time, the piece was too difficult for me, and I shelved it until I could learn this epic nine-page work.

Now a few years later, I've learned the piece, and I highly recommend it to any advanced pianist who's in for a fun challenge! The staccato repeated notes are tricky, and can only be executed properly with the correct technique (loose, high wrist, firm fingers, and a high thumb) and a piano with a fast action. Regardless of the tricky bits, this piece is an absolute joy to play. Even after months of practice, I'm not tired of this piece--which is a rarity!

As with all of David's scores, the music is clear and easy to read---whether it's on paper or on an iPad. That is a big help when learning any piece.

Exciting piece!