A new CD with piano works by American-Dutch composer and pianist Heather Pinkham, Onward, has been released by Zefir Records. The album features a selection of her solo piano works, played by the composer, as well as her compositions for piano duo, for which Ralph van Raat joins her as duo partner. These duo works make up roughly half of the album’s playing time.
Pinkham is a rapidly rising voice in contemporary music, known for her multi‑layered style that blends extended piano techniques, minimalist clarity, and a strong emphasis on melody and rhythm. The CD immediately drew national attention: from the day after its release, tracks were broadcast on NPO Klassiek across several programs on consecutive days.
Within just two days, Onward was selected as the Featured Recording for NPO Klassiek’s late‑night program Passaggio. Throughout the week, tracks from the album were broadcast nightly, each introduced by a short interview with the composer, who resides in the Netherlands. The album was subsequently featured internationally as well, including during the May 2026 “New Releases” broadcast on New York’s WNYC.
