I recently had time to check out the superb Arioso In Red, composed and performed by Dave Mohan. I love his classical style of music and it sounds really stunning – I hope our readers enjoyed it too!

By Jane Howkins

You released a song recently that we reviewed, titled Arioso In Red. What can you tell us about the track?

Its essentially a transformation of an original Arioso by J S Bach (BWV 156) into a contemporary love song. It starts out in an up-tempo mode before eventually resolving into a simple vocalised elaboration of the Bach Arioso melody. A heartfelt tribute to the composer who, more than any other, set me on a musical journey (from classical roots to folk, rock, jazz, fusion… and back).

Where can Arioso In Red be purchased and how has the reception been so far?

It’s available on all the usual digital streaming and download platforms and I’m pleased to say the songs been very well received (I’m still getting positive reviews from Brazil to Japan and everywhere in between).

Do you have any more singles planned for release?

My next release is going to be in the ‘now, for something completely different’ mould. A retro soul number with full customary horn section etc.

Have you started writing for an EP/album?

Though I’ve got an earlier album, Tears & Ashes, still available on both hard copy CD and digital format, I prefer to release most of my material now as digital singles – it helps with working on a more frequent release schedule.

Did the pandemic hinder your work much?

Sure, but there’s always online collaborations that keep me going. A very special vote of thanks to the many great musicians I’ve had the privilege of working with recently. For this latest release that includes Carolina de la Muela (vocals), Nicholas Ojeda (Double Bass) and Andy Walter/Simon Gibson down at Abbey Road.

Your music belongs firmly within the classical music category. What/who are you influenced by and what have you been listening to recently?

I started out with a classical conservatoire training, true enough, but I like to think of myself as a musician not tied to genres as such. Like Louis Armstrong used to say, there’s just two kinds of music – the good kind and the ‘other’ kind.

Where are you based? What is the local music scene like there at the moment?

Still surviving as a UK musician – despite the kicking and disparagement that music is getting here from the current UK government!

How long have you been writing music for?

I think there might once have been a time when I didn’t but I guess I was too young to remember.

Do you have any UK tour dates planned?

I’m principally a writer and recording artist rather than an on the road musician. I’m happy to remain so.

Any last words for the fans?

I’m just ever so grateful to all the kindly folks that continue to take the time to listen to my material and follow my musical journey.