Steven Schoenberg
Live: An Improvisational Journey
Quabbin Records
www.stevenschoenberg.com
By George W. Harris

Pianist Steven Schoenberg is actually listed as a “classical” pianist,
but his solo recording work is definitely in the jazz vein. This
recording of a concert from 2006 finds him giving spontaneous
improvisations, but where he differs from other pianists (who shall
remain nameless, but whose name rhymes with ferret) who have gone down
this road is that Schoenberg gives off a feeling that he’s trying to
communicate with the audience, making the music a two way street.
“Notes,” for example has Schoenberg creating a tune from the notes
shouted out from the audience, while “In The Darkness” is performed
with all of the lights of the theatre turned off. All of this would be
gimmickry if the music weren’t any good, but Schoenberg has a melodious
touch on the piano, but isn’t afraid to go from ethereal sounds to
boogie woogie on a dime. All of the tunes keep there interest after
repeated hearings (another difference from the other artist), and show
a guilelessness on songs like “Day and Night” and “Purple Sky” that is
refreshing.