The first style made popular by George Winston introduces a more
percussive “hard” sound. Created mostly be a left-hand ostinato, this
style is very chord-oriented and paints a background of textures while
the right-hand is free to improvise a melody. The reason that I say
this style is a hard sounding one is that when compared with someone
like David Lanz, the difference is readily apparent.
Lanz goes for a softer, more melodic approach. This isn’t to say
that either of these artists has never played in different ways, it’s
just that their signature sound is different.
As an example, look at the piece “Rainforest.” It is a percussive
piece made up of a left-hand ostinato pattern. Now the piece “Ocean
Dreams” is softer with the melody actually taking center stage.
It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with both styles. When I
first started playing, I identified mostly with the “Winston” style but
find myself leaning more towards a softer style now. I really like the
pianist John Herberman off of the Solitude’s label. His playing is
exquisite and very emotional.
Edward Weiss
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