A VIOLIN teacher at a Monmouth school is celebrating the release of his own CD.

Christopher Horner, who teaches pupils at Haberdashers’ Monmouth Schools, has joined forces with pianist John Lenehan to record a collection of music by Juozas Gruodis.

Music by the late Romantic Lithuanian composer who died in 1948 had never been played in the UK before Mr Horner premiered the Violin and Piano Sonata in 2003.

He has since included Mr Gruodis’ works many times in his recitals.

Mr Horner said: “His music has always gone down well with audiences everywhere in this country. It has strong folkloric elements, great lyricism and at times volatile character; music of great contrasts, always convincing and powerful which communicates to the listener instantly."

Mr Horner's recital in Vilnius, Lithuania with pianist Zoe Smith was acclaimed by authorities on the composer, giving birth to the idea of the CD.

Known as a local performer as well as a teacher, the violinist has also taught for some years at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama.

Mr Horner's CD titled 'Juovas Gruodis, Works for Violin and Piano' was recorded last year in Wyastone, Monmouth on the Discovery Music and Vision label and is now available to buy online on Amazon.