Tuesday, August 17, 2021

Classical-Scene.com: Pianist Awadagin Pratt: "Still A Long Way From Normal"

Awadagin Pratt


by Leslie Gerber

August 16, 2021

Awadagin Pratt made his first wide impact on the American classical music scene with his debut CD, “A Long Way from Normal,” a punning reference to his childhood in Normal, Illinois, and his dreadlocked appearance. While primarily active as a pianist, he graduated from music school with three degrees, in piano, violin, and conducting, and he is also an active conductor. A Professor of Piano at the College-Conservatory of Music at the University of Cincinnati, he also runs a piano festival on Long Island, and tours widely. Having previously heard him only on recordings, I was greatly looking forward to his debut at Maverick Concerts in Woodstock on August 16th. He definitely did not disappoint.

Pratt’s first half listed seven pieces by seven composers*. Before beginning, he told the audience that he would not be playing them in printed order. I recognized opener as Phillip Glass, typically devoid of content although almost made interesting by Pratt’s nuanced, involvement. He segued into Couperin.

After that, he lost me for a while, as he continued connecting numbers into a medley.

***

Pratt had one last surprise for us. William Grant Still’s Summerland, which had been listed for the first half, came instead an encore. Bravo. Bring Pratt back soon.

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