https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EDuzJ5SKFjA
Tony took inspiration from viral videos such as “Evolution of Dance,” but quickly realized that there wasn’t a definitive video compilation that traces the history of pop music performed on the grand dame of musical instruments.
“When I go to a piano store, I hear all these songs in my head and just want to sit down and play them,” Tony told me today. “I wanted to create a performance that was both efficient and entertaining, while providing the definitive journey.”
Tony has ultimately created the definitive “evolution of piano” video, informed by the most well-known piano hooks that are essential elements of songs piano music lovers have embraced throughout history—from “The Entertainer,” “Rondo Alla Turca” and “Heart and Soul,” to “Axel F,” “Right Here Waiting,” “Virtual Insanity” and “Clocks.”
All told, 28 of the most memorable hooks played on the piano throughout history, culminating in the classic “Knuckle Song.”
Tony spent several weeks arranging the music, putting each piece in chronological order, ensuring that it all flowed seamlessly in different keys and tempos.
He shared the lineup, sheet music and an audio recording with Scott, then flew to LA where the two talented artists rehearsed and shot the video with a Red 4K camera in just one day at PMJ Manor (Scott’s home and headquarters).
Scott already had a Yamaha G2 piano in his studio, while Bonnie Barrett and Makia Matsumura provided a Yamaha C7 for the shoot.
So what is it that Tony wants people to take away from all of this?
“This is a love note to pop piano,” Tony said. “We made it for people who love piano, who come to my shows and relate to the pieces we all learned as we grew up. Since it’s in chronological order, they can hear the different styles—from classical, to ragtime, to swing ragtime, to the Great American Standard era, to ‘70s pop, to ’80s pop (which turned into synth with the likes of Van Halen’s ‘Jump’), to modern day. I hope everyone enjoys this fast-paced medley of the greatest piano hooks in history.”
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