Lubomyr Melnyk explores "the soul of the piano" in St. John's at Hackney

His continuous piano music (a concept which he says he’s unable to explain, but calls a “universe of beauty, the very soul of the piano”) is a form he continues to explore on his new album Rivers and Streams, and he treats us to a few cuts from that, alongside other long form pieces from his vast repertoire.

Typically performing as a solo pianist, tonight he treats us to more collaborations than usual – displaying astonishing elegance in duet with guitar, as well as with female voice in two other pieces.

For simple prettiness, long-standing favourite "Butterflies" remains a standout. Playing in duet with a recording of himself, tinkling notes fall through the gaps in overlapping piano runs to shimmering effect, drifting towards a well-deserved standing ovation at the show’s close.

• Photo credit: Alex Kozobolis