Born in New Orleans, Gottschalk (1829-1869) composed piano works that drew on elements of Creole, African American, French, Caribbean, and Southern U.S. culture. He was the first American to earn international acclaim as a pianist-composer. Performed by renowned pianist Amiram Rigai, the selections encompass a variety of styles and reveal the breathtaking scope of Gottschalk's work. This remastered 70-minute recording is indispensable for those interested in American classical music. "Exotic, innovative compositions are performed with panache by a world-renowned pianist." —Billboard