William Chapman Nyaho has a new CD, "Senku," which means "keyboard instrument" in the Ghanaian language of Fanti.

Just in time to break up those winter doldrums: "Senku," a new CD of colorful, high-energy music whose roots lie in Africa, recorded by Ghanaian-American pianist William Chapman Nyaho.

The CD is a good preview for Chapman Nyaho's upcoming concert Friday night, where selections from "Senku" will be heard in a wide-ranging program. He'll also play an original piece, "Palmetto Prelude," by the concert producer, Rich Hinrichsen, along with the Mosaic Brass Quintet.

The concert, called "I'll Love You Always: A Musical Valentine," includes an assortment of artists and repertoire. Joining in will be classical guitarist John Paul Shields, who plays his own music and several other works; the Reuel Lubag Trio, playing jazz standards; R&B vocalist Shanna Anjali, with pianist Jeremy Young; and several ensemble numbers.

Coming up

William Chapman Nyaho, pianist, in concert 7:30 p.m. Friday at Nordstrom Recital Hall, Benaroya Hall, 200 University St., Seattle; $20 (206-527-8991 or www.hinrichsenmusic.com ).

Chapman Nyaho holds a B.A. degree from Oxford University, a master's from Eastman School of Music and a doctorate from the University of Texas at Austin. He taught at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette from 1991 to 2002, and has performed as a recitalist on several continents.

The rest of the story
By Melinda Bargreen
THE SEATTLE TIMES



visit www.nyaho.com