Pianist George Winston Brought Holiday Sounds to GMU's Center for the Arts

In blue jeans, an olive button-down shirt, and slipper socks, pianist George Winston took the stage at Saturday, transporting the almost-full house into a musical wonderland.

The program, announced by Winston from the piano, began with the familiar sounds of "Charlie Brown's Thanksgiving" and "Skating." Both are included on Winston's solo piano recording "Linus & Lucy," which features the music of Vince Guaraldi.

Winston covered the gamut of his musical interests, ranging his performance choices from R&B, jazz, blues and rock. His two sets, each lasting more than 45 minutes, included two pieces on solo guitar and one on solo harmonica.

He began the second half with "Carol of the Bells," the rich sounds of the piano filling the auditorium. The man was completely immersed in his music, his feet flying on the pedals as quickly as his fingers on the keys. 

At times he reached into the body of the Steinway, plucking strings with the fingers of one hand.

Winston played songs from his solo piano recordings, including:

• "Moon" from his recording "Autumn."
• "A Change is Gonna Come" by Sam Cooke, from his upcoming "A Change is Gonna Come" release.
• "Snowman Medley" from Forest.
• "Unknown Soldier" by The Doors, from the upcoming "A Change is Gonna Come" release.

"George Winston: The Winter Show" was presented in the Great Performances at Mason series.