Few performers in 20th century classical music are as well-known as Glenn Gould (1932-1982). Only Leonard Bernstein can equal him as a performer whose wit, humor, technique, showmanship and personal quirks are known, and in many cases, admired and loved, by music lovers in general and not just in classical music.
This CD compiles the music Gould performed for films, including the 1993 "biography" "Thirty Two Short Films About Glenn Gould" and the 1972 Kurt Vonnegut adaptation "Slaughterhouse Five." From the masterful, mathematical-but-with-heart interpretations of J.S. Bach (both solo and concerto works) to the stark, spare, almost bereaved musings of Richard Strauss' "Funf Klavierstucke," Gould's delicacy and warmth shine with quiet, dignified intensity.
These recordings date from the years 1958-1977, and the 20-bit digital remastering procedure gives this disc a rich presence. AT THE MOVIES is highly recommended to Gould fans, film music fans, piano fans (factoid: Gould was an admirer of jazz pianist Bill Evans), and makes a fine introduction for classical music neophytes.
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