Jacqueline Kroft, based in Stroud, Uk, has released an endearing EP titled “Piano Preludes Vol.02,” which is a riveting and entrancing compilation of six compositions that displays her extraordinary ability as a pianist and composer. These six pieces are exquisitely made and communicate a variety of feelings, ranging from introspective and contemplative to playful and uplifting. Kroft’s approach to the EP is unique, combining dynamic soundscapes, and infectious melodies, all in an ethereal and sentimental realm. Each composition tells its own story, luring the audience into a world of tranquil and enticing music and rhythm. Songweb was intrigued by the EP and did an online interview with Jacqueline Kroft from the other side of the world. Relax and enjoy this incredible encounter.
SONGWEB: Can you tell us a little bit about the inspiration behind your latest project?
JACQUELINE: The Piano Preludes project began in the summer of 2018. I wrote Prelude 04 on an idyllic English summer morning and the whole piece came at once. I sent it to my publisher at the time and the response was so positive that I realized after playing the piano all my life I had never focussed on just composing solely for the piano. I had always sung with the piano as an accompaniment never using the piano as the feature. This opened an exciting new world for me.
SONGWEB: How do you approach the creative process when creating new works of art?
JACQUELINE: Music is always playing loud in my mind. Sometimes a song will come to me as I’m walking somewhere or in a dream. Other times when I’m playing the piano. Whichever way I make sure I record it in its infant stage and make notes. I collect all of these ideas and then go back to develop them with care. Saying that it often happens that the song comes all at once yet other times like with “Paris Streets” it took 20 years to finish.
SONGWEB: Can you share with us a particularly memorable moment during the making of this project?
JACQUELINE: That summer of 2018 was the impetus for the piano investigations. A dear friend of mine and great pianist/composer Tony Hymas advised me to call them preludes and that I should do 24 as that is the historic number of the great composers’ preludes like Bach and Beethoven. Soon after it was a lockdown and the flora took over and entwined with silence and solitude. I began to feel overwhelmed by this higher energy and I felt as if I was following instructions. It was as if I was only the messenger of some higher beautiful energy instructing me. It was extremely touching and life-changing.
SONGWEB: What message or emotion do you hope to convey through your art?
JACQUELINE: After a lifetime of playing music and being an artist I realize that I am only a humble messenger and if I do my job properly then maybe I have represented and reflected the mathematical geometric equations of the heavenly earth and life itself.
SONGWEB: Can you describe how you incorporate your personal experiences into your work?
JACQUELINE: I take my day-to-day existence as a great privilege and all that my journey encounters are the notes to my score.
SONGWEB: How does your latest project differ from previous works you’ve created?
JACQUELINE: Until now I created work that involved songwriting for a singer using live bands and electronics. I’ve been very blessed to have had some extremely talented and committed musicians with me in the past and now. The lockdown presented this focus on solitude and going down to the roots leading to the solo piano explorations.
SONGWEB: Lastly, what are your plans for your artistic journey and where do you hope to take your work in the future?
JACQUELINE: Right now I will be recording the remainder of my Piano Preludes which total 27. I’ve released 11 so far in 2 volumes and will continue to release them in volumes of 5 or 6 preludes. I thought that would be easier for people to listen to and have the time to grasp the beauty of each prelude.
I’m working with Saxophonist Patsy Gamble recording 9 of the preludes for an album soon to be released called Preludes for Piano & Saxophone. Also through all this writing, more songs have emerged with lyrics for the next album which I am looking forward to doing in 2025.
Overall, “Piano Preludes Vol.02” is a captivating and genuinely gorgeous compilation of piano preludes that will uplift, motivate, and enchant audiences. The melodies are breathtaking, and the rhythmic interludes add a layer of intricacy that keeps the audience engaged from start to finish. You can feel Jacqueline’s passion and devotion in every note, and these works are a labor of love. What stands out about this EP is the feeling of warmth and sincerity that pervades each piece. Also, the EP is a testament to the power of music to inspire and elevate us, and it’s a great addition to any music lover’s library.
Listen to the “Piano Preludes Vol.02” by Jacqueline Kroft on Spotify or SoundCloud and let us know your thoughts.
You can follow Jacqueline Kroft here for more information.
