Much attention has been paid to the fact that it has been 100 years since Gershwin was born. Many CDs were released in this context. One of the most beautiful and impressive jazz CDs in this field is Gerswhin's world by pianist Herbie Hancock. Like Gerswhin, Hancock has done his best to popularize jazz and blues; pop, jazz and classical music can coexist with them. Hancock, winner of many Grammys,
… was collaborated for this CD by excellent vocalists such as Stevie Wonder (who can also be heard on harmonica), Joni Mitchell and Kathleen Battle. There are long performances by Lullaby (Gerswhin) and Concerto for piano and orchestra in G, 2nd movement (Ravel), together with the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra. In addition to compositions by Gershwin, this CD also contains compositions by people who lived in his time and had a special relationship with him, such as Maurice Ravel, Duke Ellington, James P. Johnson and WC Handy. It is very worthwhile to listen to Hancock and Corea together in WC Handy's classic St. Louis Blues. Others who have contributed to this CD include Wayne Shorter, Kenny Garrett and James Carter. (JW)more