Review Text
Frederick Hodges, one of the foremost jazz and ragtime pianists in the world today, performs a dozen of George Gershwin's most beloved melodies in his own dazzling arrangements that recall all the glamour and sophistication of the art deco era. From the eerily haunting "Summertime" to the strutting "I'll Build a Stairway to Paradise"; from the tender "Love Is Here to Stay" to the ebullient "Let's Call the Whole Thing Off," Gershwin's music represents the pinnacle of American musical achievement of the early 20th century. Hodges's crisp musicality and flawless technique at the 9-foot Steinway concert grand piano evoke all the charm and radiance of a Fred Astaire dance routine. The CD also includes a 16-page full-color historical booklet with detailed commentary by the artist and seldom-seen photographs. 12 selections, 60 minutes of music.
