George Walker is one of the few leading American composers of the 20th century to compose five piano sonatas, which collectively trace his stylistic evolution.
Critical Reception
Despite George Walker's accomplishments, there were no major celebrations of his music when he turned 80 or 90; recognition for Black American classical composers only began to seriously grow after his passing in 2018.
Performer Biography
Steven Beck's annual Christmas Eve performance of Bach's Goldberg Variations at Bargemusic has become a New York institution.
Composer Biography
George Walker was the first Black person to be accepted at the Curtis Institute of Music, the first to study with Nadia Boulanger, and the first to win the Pulitzer Prize in Music.
Composer Biography
George Walker was also a major composer-pianist who recorded acclaimed performances of standard repertoire, including Beethoven's 'Emperor Concerto' and Brahms's Second Piano Concerto.
Performer Biography
Pianist Steven Beck, the performer on this album, made his concerto debut with the National Symphony Orchestra and has toured Japan as a soloist.
Recording & Production
This album was recorded on February 4 and February 14, 2021, at Oktaven Audio in Mount Vernon, NY.
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