Since my first encounter with his music, Bill Evans has been a source of inspiration and an artist of immeasurable influence. My own experience with his work has grown more personal through the years, kindling a desire to explore the music on a deeper level. This project is the fruit of that effort.

Above all, I sought to convey the spirit of the music and contribute something original. But I also wanted to pay homage to the composer and his legacy. So, while I followed my own path and direction, I made an effort to explore some of the music's history.

Solo performance involves a unique range of dynamics. The aspect of time is fully at the discretion of the soloist, which offers wonderful creative freedom but requires intuition and discipline. The same can be said for the tonal possibilities. In addition to greater harmonic freedom, one has the opportunity to shape the music in ways that are not available in an ensemble setting. I become most involved when I'm able to engage these elements, exploring nuance of tone, color, balance, etc. For me, these are the real attractions and rewards of solo performance.

I have selected songs that have special meaning for me, all of which were written by Evans with the exception of "Haunted Heart". His recording of this somewhat obscure song made an impression on me early on so I wanted to include it. Among his compositions, "Peace Piece" is unique. I have chosen a different approach for this piece, as well as for "Turn Out the Stars". Both arrangements employ three guitar voices/tracks in counterpoint, which I overdubbed for the recordings, a technique that Evans explored as well. My selection of "Peace Piece" was also influenced by current events and the conflict that we, in our folly, seem determined to unleash upon a world ever at odds with the concept of peace.

I wish to express my appreciation for the support of Art of Life Records during the course of this project, for friends past and present…. and especially for the music of Bill Evans.

Stephen D. Anderson