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Selections From The Piano Rolls: A Journey Through the Golden Age of Jazz

Dallas Turner

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Published in Gershwin Plays Gershwin: Selections From The Piano Rolls: Advanced Piano Solos And Duets

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Gershwin Plays Gershwin: Selections from the Piano Rolls: Advanced Piano Solos and Duets

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Language	:	English
File size	:	10982 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
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Print length	:	60 pages

In the annals of musical history, the piano roll holds a unique and captivating place. These perforated strips of paper, designed to play on player pianos, captured the performances of legendary jazz musicians from the early 20th century, preserving their artistry for posterity.

Selections From The Piano Rolls, a remarkable series of albums released by the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of American History, offers a tantalizing glimpse into this rich musical tapestry. Through meticulous restoration and expert performances, this collection breathes new life into the piano rolls, transporting listeners back to the vibrant era of jazz's golden age.

The Golden Age of Jazz

The early 20th century witnessed an explosion of creativity in the realm of jazz music. From the bustling streets of New Orleans to the elegant ballrooms of New York City, jazz musicians experimented with new rhythms, melodies, and harmonies, creating a genre that would captivate the world.

Piano rolls played a pivotal role in this musical revolution. They allowed musicians to record their performances, capturing their improvisational genius and unique styles for posterity. These rolls became a valuable resource for music enthusiasts, allowing them to study and emulate the techniques of their idols.

The Piano Roll Restoration

Over the decades, many piano rolls deteriorated, their music fading into silence. The Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of American History embarked on an ambitious project to restore these precious artifacts, using a combination of advanced technology and expert craftsmanship.

Each roll was carefully examined and repaired, with missing notes meticulously re-punched. State-of-the-art software was employed to analyze and enhance the recordings, ensuring that the performances retained their original clarity and vitality.

Captivating Performances

Selections From The Piano Rolls features a stellar lineup of jazz masters, including Fats Waller, James P. Johnson, Eubie Blake, Jelly Roll Morton, Scott Joplin, and Art Tatum. Each performance is a testament to the virtuosity and creativity of these legendary artists.

The album series showcases a wide range of jazz styles, from the infectious ragtime of Scott Joplin to the sophisticated stride piano of Fats Waller. Listeners can immerse themselves in the pulsating rhythms and improvisational brilliance that defined the golden age of jazz.

Musical Legacy and Significance

Selections From The Piano Rolls is not merely a collection of historical recordings; it is a living testament to the enduring power of jazz music. These restored performances provide a tangible connection to the past, allowing listeners to experience the artistry of jazz legends firsthand.

The album series has also played a vital role in preserving and disseminating jazz heritage. By making these recordings widely available, the Smithsonian Institution has ensured that future generations can appreciate the musical genius of the golden age of jazz.

Selections From The Piano Rolls is a truly remarkable collection that transports listeners back to the vibrant era of jazz's golden age. Through meticulous restoration and captivating performances, this series breathes new life into the piano rolls, preserving the legacy of legendary jazz musicians for generations to come.

Whether you are a seasoned jazz aficionado or a newcomer to this captivating genre, Selections From The Piano Rolls is an essential listen. It offers a unique and unforgettable journey through the musical tapestry of the early 20th century, showcasing the brilliance and innovation that defined the golden age of jazz.