COLCHESTER-based pianist Daniel Johnson is about to release a special single for World Aids Day.

Born and bred in Chesterfield, Daniel is a graduate from the Colchester Institute’s Centre for Music and Performing Arts, where he was the winner of the awards for both solo and concerto performance.

Since leaving in 2008, he’s remained in the town but has performed for some of the world’s most prestigious cruise lines and toured all as well as concert tours around the UK.

His debut classical crossover EP came out in 2016 taking listeners on a musical journey across the genres of pop, rock, the movies and classical music.

The composition entitled Hope is a reflection on everything the National Aids Trust has achieved and what it continues to do.

Daniel says: "I’m always getting asked if I write my own music, and I’ve continually said no, but I got back from a trip a few months ago, sat at the piano and Hope materialized."

Daniel has entertained and delighted audiences around the globe performing for the world’s most prestigious cruise lines such as Cunard, P&O Cruises UK and Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines.

As well as performing around the globe, Daniel is a Guest Contributor for Pianist magazine and is a friend of the Tony Fisher Show’ on BBC Essex, chatting all things classical music.

The single will be available to pre-order from November 23 to download on December 1, via i-Tunes; with half of the proceeds going directly to the charity.

You can find out more about Daniel and his music on Facebook @pianistUK