Blue Gardenia: Latin American Music of Hal Isbitz

Hal Isbitz (Composer), John Arpin (Performer) | Format: Audio CD

Product Details

• Performer: John Arpin
• Composer: Hal Isbitz
• Audio CD (October 20, 1998)
• Number of Discs: 1
• Label: Marquis Music
• ASIN: B00000DG2V
• In-Print Editions: MP3 Download
• Average Customer Review: 4.4 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (10 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #384,182 in Music (See Top 100 in Music)

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com

Pianist John Arpin has a diverse résumé--everything from Scott Joplin to an album of animated movie music. But on Blue Gardenia, he explores the piano works of Hal Isbitz, the California-based composer who melds ragtime music with Latin American themes into memorable works that bridge the genre gap between New Age and classical. The title track is reminiscent of Joseph Lamb and Joplin, while other compositions ("Caterina," "The Flirt") are seemingly influenced by the romantics. Arpin plays these short pieces well and there's no denying that Isbitz is onto something with his self-proclaimed "terre verde" style. Memorable and melodic piano music. --Jason Verlinde

Product Description

The late pianist John Arpin presents the "terre verde" music of Hal Isbitz, with its beautiful melodies and infectious rhythms. Perfect for those who love the soul of Latin American music and the energy of ragtime.

See all Editorial Reviews

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

19 of 19 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Enchanted music to stir the depths of your soul, July 8, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: Blue Gardenia: Latin American Music of Hal Isbitz (Audio CD)

Not since I discovered Scott Joplin's classical ragtime in 1974 have I been so entranced. Hal Isbitz is undoubtedly one of the great musical geniuses of our age and deserves far wider recognition and appreciation. I always wished Scott Joplin had written more pieces like "Solace" and now I've gotten my wish! No recording in my life has affected me like this one. I have played it for months, and the haunting melodies continue to tumble through the ears of my mind all day long. EVERY piece on this album is compelling and emotionally evocative beyond anything I've heard before. To me it expresses the plaintive and primordial longing of the Latin American soul. And John Arpin interprets this music like no other, with achingly sublime feeling and expression and a masterful control of every note and nuance. This inspired music will resonate in your heart and stir your deepest passions.

11 of 11 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Absolutely Beautiful!, January 3, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: Blue Gardenia: Latin American Music of Hal Isbitz (Audio CD)

Hal Isbitz is recognized by his peers as one of the most talented composers of the exciting "terre verde" style of music. Hal's music has been performed at many music festivals such as the Ragtime Bash at Boulder, and the Scott Joplin Festival at Sedalia. Hal's beautiful music is a favorite with audiences and professional performers alike.

John Arpin who is well known as a performer and as past president of the Toronto Ragtime Society gives a sensitive and Chopinesque introduction of twelve of Hal Isbitz's Latin-American compositions on this CD. Fantastic!

Treat yourself and someone you love, to some of the most exciting music being written today!

7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars This is "Must Have" CD! Outstanding !, November 7, 1998

By A Customer

This review is from: Blue Gardenia: Latin American Music of Hal Isbitz (Audio CD)

Hal Izbitz is one of the most talented composers writing today! Izbeth begins where the great Brazilian Ernesto Nazareth left off. John Arpin is Canada's finest pianest. His performance of Izbitz's complex and haunting music is lyrical magic.