Martin's recordings

Winifred Atwell

Winifred Atwell's music is familiar to British audiences from the theme to the BBC snooker programme "Pot Black" (the Black and White Rag, below). These recordings are taken from 45 rpm singles with no indication of date, though almost certainly from the 1950's.

The sleeve notes to the first disc say:

Trinidad-born pianist Winifred Atwell came to England, played, and conquered. And none of it was really surprising.

A sparkling technique, a clever choice of melodic and rhythmic material, a distinctive style and an individual touch have all added up to a dazzling display that is a trade-mark and a hall-mark of a brilliant pianist.

In her West Indian island home the Governor, Sir Herbert Young, was Winifred Atwell's first sponsor. His faith in her talents has been more than justified, for in England she has appeared in most of the bigger concert halls as well as the major variety theatres. Her recordings for Decca have enhanced the reputation won by her achievements, and her fame has spread to far corners of the world.

Whether it be a Latin American speciality, an 8-beat opus, or some tinkly bar-room rag--each presentation is a cameo with a mood, but each is distinctly Winifred Atwell. And here is a record of the popular Atwell rags--everyone of them a masterpiece of pianistic ability.

And Miss Atwell's reward? Your pleasure.

Winifred Atwell and her Other Piano
with Rhythm Accompaniment

• Black and White Rag (Botsford) (02:26, mono, Ogg, 1.66 MB)
• Jubilee Rag (Atwell) (02:25, mono, Ogg, 1.55 MB)
• Britannia Rag (Atwell, Warlock) (02:05, mono, Ogg, 1.42 MB)
• Coronation Rag (Atwell) (02:13, mono, Ogg, 1.54 MB)

Winifred Atwell and her Other Piano
Let's Rock 'n' Roll

Side A (02:41, mono, Ogg, 1.75 MB)
a) Singing the Blues (Eadsley);
b) The Green Door (Davie, Moore);
c) See you later, alligator (Guidry).

Side B (02:37, mono, Ogg, 1.69 MB)
a) Shake, Rattle and Roll (Calhoun);
b) Rock Around the Clock (De Knight, Freedman);
c) Razzle-Dazzle (Calhoun).