Douglas Gould’s recent piano lecture-recital was nothing short of mesmerizing; a musician who has truly mastered the art and craft of piano transcription. Gould’s commitment to this nuanced skill has clearly become a lifelong study, and he offered a showcase of piano interpretations that were both intimate and awe-inspiring.
Gould began the evening with a selection of pieces from jazz greats, including Bill Evans, Dave McKenna, and Art Tatum.
After the interval came a truly special moment: the world premiere of Home.S., an improvisation by the late Esbjörn Svensson, presented for the first time with the blessing of Svensson’s family. Gould’s performance was as much a tribute as it was an exploration of Svensson’s sound, blending heartfelt emotion with Svensson’s signature ethereal style.
In a Q&A session afterward, Gould offered insights into his transcriptions and interpretations, sharing his journey with the audience; a truly inspiring evening.
