Complete Piano Solos Transcriptions by Earl Wild
Earl Wild was an American pianist known for his exceptional technique, virtuosity, and ability to transcribe classical orchestral works for solo piano. His transcriptions have become staples in the repertoire of many pianists and are often performed today. In this article, we will explore some of Wild’s most famous works and discuss their significance in the piano world.
Who Is Earl Wild?
Earl Wild was born in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania in 1915 and began playing the piano at a young age. He showed great promise and was accepted into the Carnegie Institute of Technology at the age of 12. He later went on to study at the Juilliard School where he was a student of Egon Petri. Wild’s career spanned over five decades and he was known for his incredible technical ability and musicianship.
The Complete Piano Solos Transcriptions
Earl Wild’s transcriptions are some of the most famous in the piano world. They are known for their intricate details, virtuosic passages, and romantic flair. Wild transcribed many classical orchestral works for solo piano, including pieces by Rachmaninoff, Gershwin, and Ravel. Some of the most famous transcriptions by Earl Wild include:
Rachmaninoff’s Vocalise
Wild’s transcription of Rachmaninoff’s Vocalise is one of his most famous works. The original piece was written for soprano and orchestra, but Wild’s transcription captures the beauty and emotion of the original piece while adding his own touch of technical virtuosity. The transcription is one of the most challenging pieces in the piano repertoire, requiring incredible finger dexterity and control.
Gershwin’s Embraceable You
Another famous transcription by Earl Wild is his version of Gershwin’s Embraceable You. The piece captures the essence of the original tune while adding Wild’s unique style and flair. The transcription is a great example of Wild’s ability to take a popular tune and turn it into a virtuosic piano solo.
Ravel’s La valse
Wild’s transcription of Ravel’s La valse is perhaps his most famous work. The original piece was written for orchestra, but Wild’s transcription captures the magic of the original while adding his own touch of romantic flair. The transcription is a true tour-de-force, requiring incredible technical ability and musicality.
Chopin’s Etudes
Wild also transcribed Chopin’s Etudes for solo piano. The Etudes are some of the most famous and challenging pieces in the piano repertoire, and Wild’s transcriptions capture the essence of these works while adding his own virtuosic touch.
Conclusion
Earl Wild’s transcriptions are a testament to his incredible technical ability, virtuosity, and musicality. His transcriptions have become staples in the piano repertoire and are often performed today. The four pieces we have explored in this article are just a small sample of his vast catalogue of transcriptions. Whether you are a pianist or a lover of classical music, Wild’s transcriptions are a must-listen.