Decca Releases All-New Recording of Gershwin

The unlikely combination of two highly respected Italian artists from different genres of music and a German orchestra (which happens to be the oldest in the world) performing the music of one of America's most beloved composers has proven to be the undisputed recording to own in Italy. Gershwin, released by Decca, has now spent over four months on the Italian Top 100 chart (inclusive of all music genres) and has spent three weeks in the Top 10 (peaking at number 8) and already achieved Gold status. This unexpected hit now comes to the US, available everywhere on March 22, 2011.

The intriguing chemistry of performers and repertoire on this recording ignited unusually exciting and sparkling performances. The album includes Rhapsody in Blue, Catfish Row - Symphonic Suite, Concerto in F for Piano and Orchestra and the delightful Rialto Ripples. As the piano soloist, Italian jazz pianist Stefano Bollani brings a refreshing and disarming interpretation to each work. While best known for his work with Enrico Rava and his interest in Brazilian jazz, Bollani easily embraces the vocabulary of Gershwin, who the pianist says "...wanted to create music that was one hundred percent American" rather than "symphonic jazz" or some borderland music caught between "popular" and "classical" music.

For the Rhapsody in Blue Bollani decided to add a bit of improve and ornamentation, but he adheres strictly to the score for the Piano Concerto. His reason for improve is "...that Gershwin did so at the premiere, as he hadn't had time to orchestrate it or even set down the entire piano part." For the last work on the album, Rialto Ripples, Bollani indulges in a substantial amount of free improve. The charming work, written in the style of Scott Joplin when the composer was only 18 years old, elicits the most relaxed and high-spirited performance on the recording - though it is the shortest and least ambitious composition. Bollani, Chailly and the orchestra all contribute to the party-like atmosphere including a whistle or two.

This unexpected hit in Italy now makes its way to the US and is sure to catch more than one listener by surprise. Click here to watch Chailly and Bollani discuss this unique recording and share in their enthusiasm for the project.

www.deccaclassics.com
www.deccaclassics.com/chailly-gershwin

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