In the 1970s, Red Garland told me about the pianists who influenced him when he was learning. He mentioned Nat Cole, James P. Johnson, Luckey Roberts, Teddy Wilson and Bud Powell. Then he said, Tatum, of course was the master. He was Mr. Piano. The first time I heard a Tatum record--I think it was "Tiger Rag"--I thought it was at least three pianists. Garland was far from the only listener who was convinced that Art Tatum's 1933 recording of "Tiger Rag" was the work of more than one … [Read more...]

Recently, I came across this quote: Jack Reilly's music is singular, almost private, and yet it reaches beyond his personal vision. This is music that speaks to the colllective spirit of all mankind - Bill Charlap That led to a search that turned up video of Reilly in a performance that melds Chopin and Strayhorn. His subtle key changes are central to the fun and fascination.             . … [Read more...]

When you play music you discover a part of yourself that you never knew existed.--Bill Evans The purpose of art is not the momentary ejection of adrenaline, but rather the lifelong construction of a state of wonder and serenity.--Glenn Gould Sometimes when I sit down to practice and there is no one else in the room, I have to stifle an impulse to ring for the elevator man and offer him money to come in and hear me--Arthur Rubenstein … [Read more...]