At 78 years old, pianist and composer Ian Rae is living proof that creativity knows no limits. His latest release, To The Four, is not just another album—it is a celebration of resilience, discovery, and an extraordinary late-blooming career. Over the past four years, Rae has achieved what many artists spend a lifetime chasing: 17 albums, 10 singles, and more than 3.6 million Spotify streams, all while building a devoted audience that stretches across the globe.
To The Four stands as both a personal milestone and a statement of gratitude. It reflects the remarkable journey Rae has taken between the ages of 74 and 78, a period where he not only created a vast body of work but also came to a profound realization about himself—his neurodivergence. For Rae, this wasn’t a setback but a key to understanding his own creative drive, and it has connected him with a growing community of neurodivergent listeners who find in his music something more than just sound: a form of self-regulation, a balm for anxiety, a path to restful sleep.
Musically, the album embodies what Rae does best—intimate, deeply felt piano compositions that straddle the line between classical elegance and contemporary ambience. His playing is unhurried yet expressive, weaving melodies that invite listeners to slow down and find a moment of stillness. The title itself, To The Four, feels like a nod to both the passage of time and the four years that have defined this incredible chapter in his life.
There is a meditative quality in Rae’s work that makes it easy to understand why so many have turned to his music in moments of stress or sleeplessness. His pieces aren’t designed to overwhelm with technical showmanship but to soothe, to ground, and to gently guide the listener into a calmer headspace. In a world increasingly filled with noise, Rae offers a rare gift: quiet beauty with purpose.
What makes this release all the more impressive is the sheer volume of creativity behind it. Seventeen albums in under four years would be an accomplishment for any artist, but at nearly 80 years old, it is nothing short of remarkable. Each project has added to a catalog that feels expansive yet personal, a testament to Rae’s tireless dedication to his craft.
Beyond the music itself, To The Four carries an inspiring message. Rae’s story shows that it is never too late to create, to discover, or to connect. His late realization about being neurodivergent hasn’t held him back—instead, it has deepened the relationship he shares with his audience. His fans, many of whom are neurodivergent themselves, recognize their own struggles and triumphs reflected in the calming flow of his piano work.
In an industry that often prizes youth and trends, Ian Rae is a refreshing reminder that artistry is about persistence, honesty, and heart. To The Four is not just another entry in his catalog; it is the soundtrack of an extraordinary personal journey. For listeners, it offers something rare: music that doesn’t just fill the air but fills the soul.
Follow Ian Rae on