Episodes
| Episode | First Broadcast | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| 01 | 20110323 | Radio 2 celebrates the life and music of jazz pianist Sir George Shearing, who died in New York last month, aged 91. One of the most remarkable pianists in jazz, blind from birth yet totally at home at the piano, he created one of the most individual and instantly recognizable sounds in music. First broadcast in August 2004, this programme is presented by the American singer Nancy Wilson, with new material introduced by Guy Barker. George himself recalls his early days in London and his eventual emigration to America, where he was determined to make his own mark. At the piano, he explains how he created the unique Shearing sound and re-lives the early success of his totally new Quintet which produced hit album after hit album. With the help of friends and colleague and featuring Lullaby of Birdland, Moon Over Miami and other classic tracks, we trace the Shearing story from Battersea back street to glittering New York's Birdland Club and success around the world. Nancy Wilson and Guy Barker present the first part of a tribute to Sir George Shearing. Nancy Wilson and Guy Barker honour pioneering jazz pianist Sir George Shearing |
| 02 | 20110330 | Sir George Shearing was one of the most original pianists in jazz and his death in February was felt around the world. In this concluding part of a two part tribute, we recall many of the stylish and imaginative collaborations Sir George had with both singers and instrumentalists. Nat King Cole, Mel Torme, light music giant Bob Farnon, Grammy award winning broadcaster and fellow British pianist emigre Marian McPartland, and the Dixieland jazz of New Orleans all feature in his love of playing with others. We also get an insight into just what it meant to him to play solo, by and for him. Presented by Nancy Wilson and Guy Barker, the programmes includes Shearing biographer Alyn Shipton remembering the emotion that surrounded George's recent return to London to receive his knighthood. This honour meant a great deal to the blind pianist from Battersea, who brought enjoyment to people around the world and created a unique place for himself in jazz history. Nancy Wilson and Guy Barker conclude their two-part tribute to Sir George Shearing. Nancy Wilson and Guy Barker honour pioneering jazz pianist Sir George Shearing |