As a self-taught teenage pianist, Henry Cowell experimented with his instrument, striking the keys with his fists and forearms, or strumming and scratching the strings inside the piano. The rest is history, although the tuneful optimism characteristic of Cowell’s style has little to do with the avant-garders who borrowed from his innovations. From the whiskery delicacy of Aeolian Harp to the rugged cluster eruptions in Exultation, this disc presents a balanced and carefully chosen overview of Cowell’s immense keyboard output. The four pianists bring long experience and riveting authority to their selections, proving that you can flail away with elbows and fists and still make the piano sing. For listeners who’ve never encountered the unique world of Henry Cowell, this CD is your entry ticket. [10/3/1999]
