Search - George Gershwin :: Plays His Greatest Hits

Gershwin by Gershwin

The Delite Rancher | Phoenix, Arizona | 12/17/2007

(4 out of 5 stars)

"George Gershwin "Plays His Greatest Hits" is a beautiful collection of music. Spanning various years (1919-1934), multiple locations and different arrangements, the two discs feature a large quantity of music. Unlike most discs of Gershwin music, this compilation actually features George Gershwin. If the listener is accustomed to hearing Gershwin as played through the local symphony orchestra, there is a difference. On the down side, real Gershwin sometimes echoes tin-pan alley and vaudeville. While some may consider this dated sound charming, many will find it corny. On the up side, this features George Gershwin on piano. His abilities as a composer and arranger are widely appreciated. George Gershwin's amazing piano skills are not so well known. While there are a few solo piano versions that showcase this talent, the tracks don't match anything off "Gershwin Plays Gershwin: The Piano Rolls." Most selections are instrumental, which is fortunate since the songs with vocals haven't aged as well. As the title suggests, Gershwin's most cherished music is represented including 'Rhapsody In Blue,' 'Fascinating Rhythm,' 'I Got Rhythm' and 'An American In Paris.' Aside from such hits, this collection is as deep as it is wide, featuring a good portion of quality music that's not know so well-known. With respect to the arrangement, "Plays His Greatest Hits" is organized into three chapters: From Tin Pan Alley, From the Concert Hall and From the Air Waves. Another asset of this product is the extensive liner notes. The insert is extremely helpful in making sense of the various recording sessions. For two reasons, "Plays His Greatest Hits" is probably best for the serious Gershwin listener. Sound quality is the first issue. The sound quality is good, but not great. Unless the newbie wants to start by jumping into the deep end of the pool, beginners should probably begin elsewhere. The second issue is the repetition of some of the compositions. This is always done to contrast pieces as interpreted by different orchestras, but it may be a bit too much for somebody looking start with Gershwin. All in all, "Plays His Greatest Hits" makes a great case that George Gershwin is indeed an American treasure."