Award-winning pianist Christopher O’Riley has become one of the most influential forces in the musical world. His Kennedy Center concert Sunday illuminates the versatility of this classical pianist and host of National Public Radio’s weekly show “From the Top.”
The program, his transcriptions of works by British alternative rock band Radiohead and American composer Elliott Smith, confirms Duke Ellington’s theory that there are only two kinds of music: good and bad. A quick survey of O’Riley’s own discography reveals his affinity for new music. Along with works by Beethoven, Stravinsky, Scriabin and Ravel, his recordings are chock full of contemporary pieces by P.D.Q. Bach, John Adams, George Harrison and Roger Sessions.
No wonder, then, that the music of Radiohead pushed his creative buttons, resulting in “True Love Waits,” his first recording of the group’s music in 2003, followed by “Hold Me To This” in 2005. The critical acclaim of both albums proved a good omen for his CD “Home to Oblivion,” his tribute to Elliott Smith, who took his own life after composing the soundtrack of “Good Will Hunting.”
O’Riley crisscrosses the country to host the radio show that introduces outstanding young musicians to the listening audience. During the broadcast, he chats with his guests and fills the interludes with his own turn at the piano.
“As a classical musician, I’m drawn to nicely complex musical texture,” he says. “Radiohead weaves a counterpoint along the way, a thread that makes the song unique and gives a feeling of excitement. After I began playing their music on the program, I started getting emails from listeners asking, ‘Who is this Mr. Head and how can I get his music?’
“The musically talented kids featured on the program may or may not become professional musicians and many in the audience aren’t musical. They may have more interest in their soccer team, but they identify with the kids who talk about this music, so they’re willing to give Radiohead a chance.
“Although I never met Elliott Smith, I’ve come to know his family quite well. They’re very supportive and appreciative of what I do.”
Christopher O’Riley
Christopher O’Riley performs at 8 p.m. Sunday.
Venue: Kennedy Center Terrace Theater, Washington
Tickets: $30
More info: 202-785-9727 or www.wpas.org
