This unique recording is a journey through time, beginning with Gottschalk’s years in Cuba and his influence on the two following generations up to and including Ernesto Lecuona. The liner notes are written by the distinguished Dr. S. Frederick Starr, author of the Gottschalk biography “Bamboula“.
Louis Moreau Gottschalk was America’s first important pianist-composer and the Rock Star of his age !! (1829-1869). He was Abe Lincoln’s favorite pianist ! Antonio Iturrioz’s new CD, released in September 2018, has several world premieres of music by important Cuban pianist-composers who were all influenced by Gottschalk. And the influence Cuban music had on Gottschalk.
And, the world premiere recording of Gottschalk’s greatest work, Symphony Romantique BOTH movements, Night in the Tropics and Fiesta Criolla, ON ONE PIANO !
“Congratulations on this extraordinary album of music ! Your projection of the inner life in
these works of Gottschalk et al is uncanny. Of course, your technical mastery is beyond
complete, but it is your realization of the ‘heart and soul’ of this music which is most
impressive. That you have given the world this historic ‘first’ re-hearing of Gottschalk’s original
intentions for ‘Night in the Tropics’ is more than worthy of being recorded for posterity. I wish
you well in this endeavor to bring such great music (with your fantastic playing) to the public !”
ANDRE WATTS, March 26, 2018
Read the Press Release from Steinway
Read the Endorsements