Sir Michael Tippett became one of the most internationally renowned British composers of the 20th century, though this recognition came late in his life. He developed a very personal and progressive style of composition, taking the melodic concept into uncharted territory. It was this fresh approach that made him particularly popular in North America, and gave him the impetus to embark on many large-scale works, including a series of operas. His most significant and successful was The Midsummer Marriage, an unconventional love story that contained four very attractive dances. They were later to form a suite that has gained considerable popularity. The Piano Concerto came from the same year, the composer’s stated intention being to make the piano sing. It is a virtuoso score whose roots are in the traditions of the Romantic concerto.