Gershwin Fantasia Containing “Rhapsody in Blue” and 16 other themes by George Gershwin - Sheet Music for Piano (Digital Download)

I was 12 years old when I first learned Rhapsody in Blue. It changed my life: it mixed Jazz and Classical styles in a way I hadn’t realized was possible. I loved the melodies, the syncopation and the piano virtuosity. It was a treat to play it at such a young age.

I continued to perform Rhapsody in Blue through the years, over time making it the framework for a medley–adding “Someone to Watch Over Me,” “Fascinating Rhythm,” other songs and improvisation–creating what has come to be known as the Gershwin Fantasia. It’s been a great joy to perform it at hundreds (if not thousands) of concerts, and it’s different every time.

David Abell was a wonderful man who owned a piano store in Hollywood for many years and provided instruments for all the great pianists who passed through town. I jumped at the opportunity to be a part of “A Tribute to David Abell” in 1991 along with a number of my favorite pianists, including Ahmad Jamal, Clare Fischer, Monty Alexander and Lou Levy. The concert was recorded on a Yamaha Disklavier™ piano and this performance has always been special to me.

Although I’ve recorded and released a number of versions over the years this is the first to be transcribed and published. In playing it feel free to edit and add your ideas to make the Fantasia your own.

- Mike Garson