Quickly establishing himself as one of the finest Irish musicians of his generation, Brian O'Kane is joined by fellow-Irish pianist Michael McHale in this recording of works for Cello and Piano by Fauré and Saint-Saëns.

The album, recorded on the Champs Hill Records label, celebrates the educing friendship between Camille Saint-Saëns and Gabriel Fauré, originally hailing from their master pupil days at the Niedermeyer School in Paris.

Brian O'Kane says of the disc, "The songs, romances and sonatas on this disc contact arguably some of the most beautiful repertoire for cello and piano, and because of their connections, offer an insight into how teacher and student can inspire one another."

Since winning first prize at the Windsor International String Competition in 2008, Brian O'Kane made his debuts with RTÉ National Symphony Orchestra, the Philharmonia Orchestra under Ashkenazy and in recital at Wigmore Hall.

Winner of the Terence Judd / Hallé award in 2009, Belfast-born Michael McHale has established himself as one of Ireland's leading pianists. His critically acclaimed début solo album, The Irish Piano, was selected as 'CD of the Week' by the critic Norman Lebrecht.