Piano Grand! A Smithsonian Celebration [VHS]

Oustanding - but don't pay $150
I rented this from Netflix and was totally blown away. A great DVD with wonderful performances, playing, and well shot too. It's really a crossover DVD in that jaz, classical and rock are all represented. When I went to purchase it I found out it is out of print and being sold used for $150. Outrageous! If you really want to have a copy of this, rent it from Netflix and rip it yourself. Skip the used rip-off. Got $150 to spend on this used, good for you.

Great contents, one small complaint
I agree with all the positive reviews here that this is an interesting, high quality DVD with very good contents. I do want to add one comment about the video format, this disc is in letter box format, NOT anamorphic widescreen. So it does not take full advantage of today's widescreen TVs. If you are looking for full resolution video, you might be a bit disappointed.

Piano Passion
Nothing better illustrates the versatility of the grand piano than this Smithsonian tribute to the greatest musical instrument ever invented. Performers from Jerry Lee Lewis to Toshiko Akiyoshi to the Labeque sisters demonstrate why the piano when played with feeling launches the soul into orbit. From Lewis' key banging, for example, comes an almost primal rhythm that sets the feet tapping; Akiyoshi's improvisional interpretation of "When I Was 17'' illustrates the many ways one tune can be played; and the Labeque sisters' double piano version of Ravel's "Mother Goose Suite'' shows the piano's unique ability to make softly played, relatively uncomplicated pieces sublime. The Smithsonian wisely chose Beethoven as the center piece of the tribute. As Robert Levine, a piano historian and concert pianist, explains, Beethoven's raging talent forced piano makers to enlarge the instrument to its modern size -- the smaller version he learned on wasn't capable of expressing the magnificent music racing in his head. Despite the eclectic line-up, the performers all have one thing in common: a passion for the piano. And it shows on this video, e.g., the Labeque sisters virtually go into a trance as they play the Ravel piece. Watching these pianists become enraptured by the ethereal sounds they elicit simply by caressing its keys equals the joy of hearing their inspired playing.

Magnificent
I first saw this presentation on PBS TV. Unfortunatly, I did not see it all but was determined to "See It All". The opening by Billy Joel alone is worth the DVD. His greatest recording ever of "Piano Man" If you think you have heard it before, forget it. This performence will bring tears to your eyes beleive me.The rest of the program will give you a cross-section of great Pianists like nothing else you have seen. From the Classics to "Dianne Krall" This is an absolute "Must Have DVD" for the piano enthusiast. Period.

The best of the best
Short review because I have nothing but the best things to say about this package. If you are a true piano jazz fan like myself, this is a must own dvd. Buy it.. you WILL NOT be disappointed!