There are undoubtedly many jazz fans who've been curious about Wynton Marsalis' classical recordings. Recognizing Marsalis' canon would benefit from an introductory volume, Sony Classical compiled Classic Wynton, which includes a cross-section of his non-jazz recordings from 1984 to 1998. Fans won't be surprised by the artist's clear, pure tone on these pieces, composed by Purcell, Handel, J.S. Bach, Hovhaness, Rimsky-Korsakov, and J.B. Arban. (The last, "Variations on 'Le Carnaval de Venise'," is famous as one of teenage Wynton's favorite pieces from his practice book.) Unfortunately for novices, the liners neglect a list of his classical discography, and the 1998 date ensures that several of his famous 1999 performances won't be present. Still, dipping a toe in the water is quite easy with this volume.
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