Patrick Beckman, composer/pianist

"American Scenes is an inspirational journey…"

--Jeff Perkins, BlogCritics (full text)

American Scenes, Volume 1

1 Motown

2 Kansas City

3 Memphis Toccata

4 Appalachian Song

5 Philly

6 Homage To Franz Schubert

American Scenes, Volume 2

1 Chicago - Stoney Island Jump

2 New York - Harlem Night Wind

3 Nashville - Adagio/Hoedown

4 Birmingham - Shout!

5 Miami - South Beach At Dusk

These two CDs, American Scenes, Volumes 1 & 2, represent Patrick Beckman as a mature and technically accomplished pianist and composer. An array of New Age, Funky Contemporary, and Lyrical Jazz, this CD takes the listener through the great cities of the eastern US. Every piece is different, just as each city has its unique character. Beckman has captures the essence through complex rhythm, unexpected twists of harmony, and dynamic contrasts of mood. From the simple, restful introspective of Appalachian Song, to the hard-hitting, dynamic Motown, the listener cruises through a cornucopia of new jazz that encompasses the entire keyboard. Beckman lets the listener taste every flavor; his "Homage To Franz Schubert" is Schubert with a twist of lime.

Patrick Beckman, composer/pianist

Pianist and composer Patrick Beckman turned the eclectic experiences of his student years into a way of life. At the University of Illinois, Urbana, he served as music director for the Station Theatre, where he composed music for avant-garde theatre, dance, and musical groups. He also composed musicals for performance at the university, played gigs around Chicago with various R&B bands, and worked as a studio musician.

Since that time, his choral music has been recorded and performed widely, as has his work for piano solo. He still writes music for the theater, including productions at the University of Illinois' Krannert Center and Highland College. As a pianist, he has maintained an active schedule of recitals and performed as a soloist with the University of Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra.

After earning his bachelor's and master's degrees in piano performance under the tutelage of Claire Richards, Dean Sanders, Soulima Stravinsky, and Kenneth Drake, he joined the faculty of Highland College, serving initially as artist-in-residence. He has also held positions at his alma mater and at Rockford College.

Beckman lives in Freeport, Ill., with his wife Linda and their two sons, Patrick and Michael.

Review:

"American Scenes is an inspirational journey not only across America but through Beckman's own use of sound and style. In one moment it can be dynamic, passionate, energetic, and alive with jazz vibrancy. In the next there is restful easy listening.

"As the music moves from city to city, mood to mood, through subtle swings in tempo, style, and feel, the individuality of each becomes more defined. However, the whole somehow seamlessly sits together, wrapped within the America that binds it tightly."

--Jeff Perkins, BlogCritics (full text)

Artist's website