Customer Reviews

George Feyer Plays George Gershwin: 40 of His Most Beloved Melodies

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It's been more than 40 years since I first ran across George Feyer's "Echoes..." series of recordings on the Vox label (Echoes of Paris, Echoes of Vienna, etc.) Every month I check to see if by some miracle these recordings have been reissued, but I doubt they ever will because of their original label. In the meantime we will make do with this excellent George Gershwin album, which seems to me to come closer to his old recordings than the other stereo-era Feyer recordings now available. But will some company out there PLEASE reissue his old mono VOX recordings and spread joy through the world!

Anyone that likes solo piano, must have this one in their collection. Feyer was a superior pianist, and arranger. These are performances to LISTEN to. For alot less than a carton of ciggies, you can buy something good for you! Aloha

This is undoubtedly one of the best recordings of popular Gershwin tunes. They are played with Feyer's european touch, but amazingly american in spirit. All his collections since 1951 ("Echoes of Paris", "Echoes of Broadway", "Echoes of Rome" etc.) should be re-mastered and released again, as well as his famous recordings collected in album "Cafe carlyle". It is a real music treasure.

Hours sped like minutes when sitting next to the keyboard of Feyer's Piano in the Stanhope. I only wish all of his albums could be re-released and a new generation might experience this rare talent. He played with consummate skill, gentle humor and a panache that I've been unable to find anywhere.

So I purchase my Nano and then easily transfer much of my "must have" music library to the 8 Mega Black Nano. The Nano makes me want to hear all my music again as I work out, etc. I ordered "must have" Feyer's Gershwin from Amazon and was lucky to get the Gershwin CD. If only they could remaster all his works onto CDs at a lower price than the $100 plus I paid. Feyer is a top addition and it reminds me of the Stanhope days and his music magic that I wish to briefly tell you.

In the latter 70s, the Stanhope weekends were a joy, buttressed by Feyer's music. He held court and the audience was captivated. He was an excellent pianist with excellent trills in the high octaves, and nice contrast with the lower ones. The Gershwin CD the piece "I Got Rhythm" reminds one of small flames jumping lightly on a log. So light, so elegant, so much in rhythm. I would take my "A" dates to the Stanhope, including my future wife of 20 plus years. After the Met Opera or ballet, I would take my dates to the Stanhope. Usually two Kier Royals, supper, wine, and dessert would accompany George's fine music. Such a rich repertory and bottomless request well that he knew with top piano skill!

Missing on the CD was his singing and funny remarks. I recall him playing `Thank Heavens For Little Girls"... they are so helpless, and then he would pick some women from the audience and repeat the word " helpless' and the everyone would laugh. My dates were the younger women in the Stanhope back then and he tended to look at my dates.....and made them feel like a princess

The Stanhope was a bit expensive but a classy place. With George, it was worth every penny. I think Gunnar ( spelling?) was the head waiter. They knew you and you did not have to ask for a certain drink as they knew your need before your request. Unlike today, waiters are more of errand boys to the kitchens. George also knew your favorites in songs.

One thing that is not obvious, despite my Ivy MBA and a good undergraduate degree, one does not learn in early years the basic American songs of Porter, Gershwin, etc. Some of my dates knew many of the words to these songs from their social events. Hence for me it was a pleasant discovery and made me grateful to the mastery of George. It opened one's appreciation to the very rich music heritage of America.

The CD in ADD format was very clear; no his; and, the accompanying musicians were well heard in CD. Enjoy this CD!

I've had this Cd for several years and return to it again and again!The price sure fluctuates but the music remains eternal.If you can get your hands on this do not hesitate. It has always been one of my all time favorites. Feyer and Gershwin-a match made in Heaven!