1939-58

George Shearing, who died in 2011, was one of the most illustrious jazz pianists of his era, overcoming blindness to become one of the truly distinctive keyboard stylists, equally at home as soloist, small group leader, with big bands or as an empathetic accompanist for some of the fine singers who were his contemporaries. This collection traces his recording career over a crucial 20-year period from it's very beginnings just before the outbreak of WWII through to classic albums towards the end of the 1950s, including some rare early recordings. It demonstrates the extraordinary breadth of his talent, including his adeptness on the piano accordion, and the way his unique style developed, and we hope that as well as providing thoroughly entertaining listening it is a fitting tribute to a true giant of the genre.