It’s not often that a songbook comes into print before the corresponding album is released, but in a unique collaboration with popular French artist and composer Yann Tiersen, that’s exactly what he requested to happen.
In December, Tiersen announced that his upcoming album Rathlin from a Distance will be released on 4 April 2025. On the same day of his announcement, Hal Leonard released the official matching folio in Europe. The book was mentioned in the official Tiersen press release and shared on his social media to announce this unique publication. This advance release provides his fans with the unique opportunity to experience the new music first by purchasing the official sheet music and playing it at home!
Louise Unsworth, who manages Hal Leonard’s long-standing relationship with Yann, commented, “This innovative, print-first approach offers fans a unique opportunity to connect with the music in an intimate, hands-on way. Yann’s passion for the physical print medium and his dedication to connecting with fans on a deeper level makes him a joy to work with and opens up creative new opportunities such as this.”
Rathlin from a Distance features piano solo transcriptions approved by Tiersen, including the bonus piece “Bethesda” and a specially written preface from Yann himself. The book retails for $19.99. It is already in stock in Europe and will be available in the U.S. shortly. The pieces are also available digitally on Hal Leonard’s platforms. Retailers interested in Rathlin from a Distance can call the Hal Leonard E-Z Order Line at 1-800-554-0626.
