John O'Conor wouldn't tell Fred Child what words came to mind as he played Schubert's Impromptu for a November 2001 recital in Studio 4A, but the Irish pianist did make the Steinway sing with music of Schubert, Chopin, Field and Scriabin.

O'Conor has toured the world, made over 20 recordings for the Telarc label, including all 32 Beethoven piano sonatas, and he teaches younger generations of pianists. O'Conor has also helped bring the music of early-19th century composer and fellow countryman John Field -- the father of the Nocturne -- to the fore.

Listen to the entire hour

Related Links

Franz Schubert: Impromptu in E-flat, Op. 90 Franz Schubert: Impromptu in G-flat, Op. 90 Franz Schubert: Impromptu in A-flat, Op. 90 John Field: Nocturne No. 6 in F Frédéric Chopin: Nocturne in E-flat, Op. 9, No. 2 Alexander Scriabin: Nocturne in D-flat for left hand only

On Impromptus John O'Conor briefly describes the anatomy of an Impromptu Mom, Dad, I want to be a musician O'Conor recalls the time he broke the news to his parents On John Field O'Conor reflects on the Irish composer who invented the Nocturne Rugby vs. Piano O'Conor recalls how he finally gave up playing rugby to pursue further piano studies