December’s playlist features over 600 amazing classical interpretations by the renowned Canadian pianist Glenn Gould. His contrapuntal textural piano variations were a weekly staple of nights spent at my Grandmother’s house. Classical music was a large part of my early musical training, and as much as I wanted to run from it for more contemporary forms of the day, it somehow followed me inevitably throughout my music life. Piano lessons as well as other early musical training couldn’t narrow down my restlessly eclectic rock-and-roll spirit, yet somehow his music continued to appeal to me throughout my life. So, I believe it really all comes back to Gould for me, as he seemed so strong willed, individualistic, and free to me while I was growing up, yet he was someone deeply tied to disciplined high-brow music.

Glenn was Classical Music’s bonafide Rock Star during the 60’s and 70’s, his eccentricities and whimsy equally as cataloged by the press as his genius interpretations of Bach, Beethoven , Mozart, Scriabin, Gibbons, Liszt, Hindemith, Schoenberg, and Strauss. He sat very low to the keys on a homemade wooden chair made by his Father, played established works at half-tempos, wore gloves and overcoats constantly when not onstage, sang and vocalized along with his trance-like performances thus driving conductors and audio engineers crazy. He was a true unique original in his field both lauded and loathed equally by peers. He did what he wanted and didn’t give a damn to critics. I think that many of my musical heroes embody the very same ethos and drive.

Enjoy!