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: Richard T. Katz has arranged, composed, and performed ten new works on his new CD, : Wandering. These rock etudes for piano and jazz band are probably the most exciting synthesis of classical, jazz, and pop elements ever. They combine the virtuoso style of the classical piano concerto with jazz harmony, diverse percussion, and horns. Wandering celebrates great musical works of both classical and contemporary popular genres by combining composers’ thematic material into a novel collage. "Ain’t Nobody/Symphonic Etudes," the 1st cut on the CD, intertwines Schumann’s solo piano masterpiece with the Chaka Khan funk tune by David Wolinski. Themes from the two works juxtapose perfectly because of their identical tempos, keys, and syncopated rhythms. The result is a fresh and catching instrumental album that will delight discerning listeners of broad musical interest. : Wandering was premiered at St. Louis’ Sheldon Auditorium on January 29, 1999, to a sold out audience, and received three standing ovations. Many requested that these works be recorded, and the results of six years of work is Wandering. All of the proceeds from sales of this new CD will be donated to the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, Katz’ favorite charity. : Katz, a classical pianist, studied piano and composition at the Mannes College of Music, Eastman School of Music, and Cleveland Institute of Music. As a composer, he has been commissioned to create several works of sacred music. As a pianist, he has won semi-finalist and finalist awards in several piano competitions including the Young Keyboard Artist Association and the Society of American Musicians. As a chamber musician he has appeared with members of the Cleveland Orchestra as well as the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. Recent collaborations include recitals with SLSO concert master, David Halen. He recently appeared in the SLSO Chamber Music Series in a performance of Beethoven’s "Archduke" trio. He has also performed at the National Press Club in Washington D.C., Chicago Historical Society, Dame Myra Hess Recital Series at the Chicago Cultural Center (broadcast on WFMT), St. Louis Pro Musica, St. Louis Ethical Society, and University of Missouri, St. Louis. : Steve Schoolman, St. Louis composer and President of West End Studios calls Wandering "refreshing in its originality and wonderful in its inception. Katz beautifully combines diverse musical styles and forms into lyrical musical prose. This CD will rock you with pleasure." SLSO Conductor Hans Vonk noted the "extremely clever arrangements." Jane Higgins, Producer of National Public Radio’s "Missouri Impact," commissioned Katz to create music for her program, which is broadcast throughout the state. Wandering is the most novel instrumental album in recent years.

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