Search - Marian Mcpartland, Teddy Wilson :: Piano Jazz

A nice entry in the series

DANIEL MILES | FOUNTAIN HILLS, ARIZONA United States | 11/12/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This is an entertaining installment in the Piano Jazz Series. Teddy talks quite a bit about his personal history and the sequence of events that led him from Texas to Chicago to New York where he worked with Benny Carter, Billie Holliday and, of course, ultimately with Benny Goodman. He talks about meeting Goodman at a party and jamming with him, an historic (and possibly orchestrated?) occurence which led to the formation of the Benny Goodman trio, which also included legendary drummer Gene Krupa whom Wilson praises highly. He also talks about his close association with piano legend Art Tatum and his affection for Billy Strayhorn compositions. On a technical level, Marian points out his fluency with tenths in his left hand (an octave plus a third). They also discuss the inevitable nervousness associated with performing in front of an audience and various ways to combat it. An appreciation for Art Tatum isn't too surprising, but Teddy's other main influence, Vladimir Horowitz, is more unexpected and very interesting. You can hear the awe in his voice as he discusses Horowitz's ability to make hundred year old classical works sound fresh and vital. And of course Wilson's own superlative playing is another strength of the program. He's in top form and delivers nice performances of such chestnuts as "Moonglow", "Stompin' at the Savoy" and "Sophisticated Lady". Teddy Wilson is one of those artists who has influenced countless musicians yet always remained humble about his unique gift. This program captures both his humility and his exquisite musicianship and is definitely worth a listen from jazz piano fans."