Percy Grainger, born George Percy Aldridge Grainger on July 8, 1882, in Brighton, Melbourne, Australia, was a celebrated composer, pianist, and conductor renowned for his inventive approach to folk music arrangements as well as his original compositions. Grainger's career was marked by an enthusiastic embrace of folk traditions, particularly those of the British Isles, and an innovative spirit that extended to his performances and instrumentations.

Grainger moved to London in 1901 and later to the United States in 1914, where his career flourished. He was known for his eccentricity, his virtuosic piano playing, and his expansive creativity, which saw him delve into various genres and compositional techniques. His works often featured unorthodox ensembles and instruments, including the creation of experimental instruments. One of his most famous pieces, "Lincolnshire Posy," is emblematic of his dedication to folk music, and "Country Gardens" is among his best-known light pieces. Grainger's work was also notable for its use of unconventional notation and a democratized view of musicians within an ensemble. He passed away on February 20, 1961, leaving behind a legacy of an artist deeply connected to the folk music roots yet perpetually pushing the boundaries of classical music. The listed releases suggest a posthumous exploration and reissue of his prolific work, ensuring the continued appreciation and study of his innovative contributions to music.

Genres

Australian Classical

Concert Band

Early Modern Classical

Wind Symphony

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Maurice Ravel

Latest Release

Éclats. Piano Music from the Golden Age (Extended Edition)

Percy Grainger•

Bedřich Smetana•

Felix Mendelssohn•

Franz Liszt•

Robert Schumann•

Johann Sebastian Bach

Album - 47 Tracks - Released September 17, 2024