The Gershwin Moment

Album Description

Experience the timeless allure of George Gershwin's music reimagined through the virtuoso touch of pianist Kirill Gerstein in "The Gershwin Moment." Recorded live over a five-year period, this album captures the essence of Gershwin's unique blend of classical, jazz, and klezmer influences, brought to life by Gerstein's exceptional artistry. Collaborating with conductor David Robertson and the St. Louis Symphony, Gerstein delivers a captivating performance that spans a variety of Gershwin's most beloved compositions, from the iconic "Rhapsody in Blue" to the enchanting "Summertime" from "Porgy and Bess."

The album features a mix of solo and orchestral pieces, showcasing Gerstein's versatility and deep connection to Gershwin's music. Highlights include the virtuosic "7 Virtuoso Etudes after Gershwin," which demonstrate Gerstein's technical prowess, and the tender "Blame It On My Youth," arranged for vibraphone and piano. The Piano Concerto in F Major, performed live with the St. Louis Symphony, is a standout, with Gerstein's nuanced interpretation bringing new depth to this classic work.

"The Gershwin Moment" is a testament to Kirill Gerstein's mastery of the piano and his ability to breathe new life into timeless music. Whether you're a longtime fan of Gershwin or discovering his music for the first time, this album offers a fresh and engaging perspective on one of America's greatest composers. With a running time of just over an hour, it's a captivating journey through Gershwin's musical legacy, expertly guided by one of today's most talented pianists.

16 februari 2018

℗ 2018 myrios classics

About Kirill Gerstein

Kirill Gerstein is a renowned Russian-American concert pianist, celebrated for his unique blend of Russian, American, and Central European musical traditions. Born in Voronezh, Russia, in 1979, Gerstein's prodigious talent was evident from a young age, leading him to attend one of the country's prestigious music schools for gifted children. His musical journey took an innovative turn when he taught himself to play jazz at home, adding a layer of improvisational skill to his classical training.

Gerstein's career has been marked by numerous accolades, including the prestigious Gilmore Artist Award, which he received as its sixth recipient. His performances are known for their wide-ranging repertoire and resonant themes, spanning from the romantic works of Schumann to the intricate compositions of Ravel. Beyond his solo performances, Gerstein is also a dedicated educator and artistic collaborator, having led piano classes at the Stuttgart Musik Hochschule and currently holding the position of Professor of Piano at the Hanns Eisler Hochschule in Berlin. His commitment to nurturing young talent is further evident in his role at the Kronberg Academy’s Sir András Schiff Performance Programme for Young Artists.

Gerstein's musical explorations are not confined to the concert hall; he is also a curator and musical leader, continually seeking to bridge different musical worlds and inspire audiences with his deep curiosity and artistic vision. Whether performing solo recitals or collaborating with other artists, Kirill Gerstein's performances are always a testament to his profound musicality and innovative spirit.