Earl Wild - The Piano Music of Earl Wild (LP)

Dive into the captivating world of Earl Wild with his self-titled album "The Piano Music of Earl Wild," released on November 1, 2010, under the prestigious Chandos label. This classical piano masterpiece spans a rich duration of 1 hour and 19 minutes, offering a profound exploration of Wild's virtuosic compositions.

The album is a treasure trove of Wild's interpretations of Gershwin's timeless works, including the grandeur of "Grand Fantasy on Porgy and Bess," a multi-movement suite that beautifully encapsulates the essence of Gershwin's iconic opera. Each movement, from the bluesy "Jasbo Brown Blues" to the tender "Bess, You is My Woman Now," showcases Wild's technical brilliance and emotional depth.

In addition to the Gershwin fantasy, the album features "Seven Virtuoso Etudes after Gershwin," where Wild reimagines Gershwin's popular songs into intricate piano etudes. Tracks like "Liza," "Somebody Loves Me," and "The Man I Love" are transformed into dazzling displays of pianistic skill.

The album also includes the "Improvisation on Someone to Watch Over Me," a series of variations that range from the serene "Barcarolle" to the rhythmic "Brazilian Dance" and the passionate "Tango." These variations highlight Wild's ability to infuse new life into familiar melodies.

Completing the collection is the "Piano Sonata," a three-movement work that demonstrates Wild's compositional prowess. The sonata's "March. Allegro" opens with vigor, the "Adagio" offers a moment of reflection, and the "Toccata (à la Ricky Martin)" closes with a playful and energetic flair.

Earl Wild's "The Piano Music of Earl Wild" is a testament to his enduring legacy as a pianist and composer. This album is a must-listen for classical music enthusiasts and anyone seeking to explore the rich tapestry of Wild's musical genius.