Artist: Art Tatum Album: Piano Starts Here

Year: 1995
Duration: 0:0-1

A Fascinating and of Piano Starts Here by Art Tatum

Art Tatum, a legendary jazz pianist, continues to inspire many musicians with his improvisational skills, unique harmonic language, and astonishing speed and accuracy. One of his most notable albums, Piano Starts Here, released in 1940, demonstrates his impressive ability to reinterpret classic tunes, incorporate diverse musical styles, and bring new life into the standards. In this post, we'll delve into the history of Art Tatum, explore the music genre of Piano Starts Here, highlight the best songs from the album, examine the most innovative parts, and provide a .
Art Tatum was born in Toledo, Ohio, in 1909, and lost his eyesight due to cataracts in his early years. Despite his disability, he taught himself to play the piano and eventually became one of the most influential jazz pianists of all time. He was known for his intricate and complex solos, fast tempos, and his ability to blend classical music with jazz. His music inspired many artists, including Oscar Peterson, Bill Evans, and Herbie Hancock.
Piano Starts Here is a solo album that showcases Art Tatum's immense musicality, phrasing, and inventiveness. The album consists of thirteen pieces, including standards like Tea for Two, Tiger Rag, and Sweet Lorraine. The album's genre is a crossover between swing and stride piano. The stride piano style originated in the early 20th century and involves playing the left hand in a walking bassline and the right hand in syncopated rhythms, creating a lively and rhythmic sound. Swing, on the other hand, emerged in the late 1920s and emphasizes a more relaxed and danceable feel.
The best songs in Piano Starts Here include Tea for Two, Tiger Rag, and Body and Soul. Tea for Two is a lively and joyous tune that showcases Tatum's mastery of the stride piano style. The song opens with a playful and elegant introduction and then develops into a dazzling display of speed, precision, and rhythmic variation. Tiger Rag is a classic jazz composition that features a catchy and syncopated melody. Tatum's interpretation is particularly notable for its intricate and exciting improvisation. Body and Soul, a slow ballad, shows Tatum's sensitive and lyrical side. His playing is marked by sweeping arpeggios, delicate phrasing, and soulful expression.
The most innovative part of Piano Starts Here is Art Tatum's use of dissonance, chromaticism, and harmonic complexity. His distinctive harmonic language involves using chords that are not traditionally found in a song's harmonies and inserting unusual progressions. For instance, in Sweet Lorraine, he uses a series of shifting chords that create a sense of tension and release. In Tea for Two, he employs unexpected chromatic runs, creating a sense of surprise and excitement. These elements demonstrate Tatum's creativity and artistic vision.
In terms of a of Piano Starts Here, while the album is undoubtedly a masterpiece, it may not be the best introduction to Art Tatum's music. The album's focus on solo piano playing may be overwhelming for some listeners, and its jazz standards may not appeal to those unfamiliar with the genre. Additionally, the album's sound quality may not be up to modern standards due to technical limitations at the time of recording. Nonetheless, Piano Starts Here remains a significant and vital contribution to jazz history, and its place in Art Tatum's legacy is well-deserved.
In summary, Piano Starts Here by Art Tatum is a mesmerizing album filled with virtuosic performances, memorable tunes, and groundbreaking harmonic experimentation. The album transcends time and continues to inspire and influence generations of musicians. While it may not be the easiest album to delve into, it remains a testament to Art Tatum's unparalleled musicianship and artistry. So, if you're a fan of jazz music or seek to explore new musical horizons, Piano Starts Here is well worth your time and attention.
In summary, Piano Starts Here by Art Tatum is a mesmerizing album filled with virtuosic performances, memorable tunes, and groundbreaking harmonic experimentation. The album transcends time and continues to inspire and influence generations of musicians. While it may not be the easiest album to delve into, it remains a testament to Art Tatum's unparalleled musicianship and artistry. So, if you're a fan of jazz music or seek to explore new musical horizons, Piano Starts Here is well worth your time and attention.