Masters Of The Roll: Percy Aldridge Grainger

Dive into the enchanting world of Percy Aldridge Grainger with "Masters Of The Roll: Percy Aldridge Grainger," a captivating collection of 23 songs that span a rich and diverse musical landscape. Released on July 16, 2015, by Blue Pie Records USA, this album offers a comprehensive journey through the composer's most beloved works, all presented in a single, engaging package.

The album opens with selections from Edvard Grieg's Peer Gynt Suite No. 1, Op. 46, including the iconic "Morning Mood" and "In The Hall Of The Mountain King," showcasing Grainger's virtuosity and interpretive prowess. The collection also features Grainger's own compositions, such as the evocative "Lotus Land, Op. 47, No. 1" and the dynamic "Symphonic Etudes, Op. 13," demonstrating his unique voice and innovative approach to piano performance.

A highlight of the album is the inclusion of 19 Norwegian Folk Songs, Op. 66, which Grainger meticulously arranged and performed, offering a glimpse into his deep appreciation for traditional music. The album also includes selections from Tchaikovsky's "The Nutcracker Suite, Op. 71a," featuring the famous "Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy" and other beloved dances, showcasing Grainger's versatility and mastery of diverse musical styles.

With a duration of 1 hour and 14 minutes, "Masters Of The Roll: Percy Aldridge Grainger" is a testament to the composer's enduring legacy and his significant contributions to the world of classical music. Whether you're a longtime fan of Grainger's work or a newcomer to his music, this album is an essential addition to any classical music collection, offering a rich and rewarding listening experience.

Percy Grainger, born in Australia in 1882, was a pioneering composer, arranger, and pianist whose innovative spirit left an indelible mark on the world of music. After studying in Frankfurt, Grainger embarked on a successful concert career in England before moving to the United States in 1914, where he became a naturalized citizen. He is renowned for his role in the early 20th-century revival of British folk music, collecting and arranging numerous folk songs that celebrated the cultural heritage of the British Isles.

Grainger's compositions often pushed the boundaries of conventional music, exploring a wide spectrum of styles from medieval polyphony to early electronic music. He was an inventor at heart, creating "free music" machines that allowed him to experiment with new sounds and textures. His extensive body of work includes around ninety solo piano pieces, many of which are transcriptions of his orchestral and instrumental compositions.

While Grainger's experimental works are notable, he is perhaps best known for his piano arrangement of the folk-dance tune "Country Gardens." Beyond his musical achievements, Grainger was a champion of Nordic culture and a lifelong eccentric, known for his unique personality and unconventional lifestyle. His legacy endures through his compositions, arrangements, and the Grainger Museum in Melbourne, which preserves his life and work for future generations to explore and appreciate.