The precursor to 1982's commercial breakthrough, December, George Winston's 1980 Windham Hill debut boasts all the lyrical power and poignancy of its follow-up. A simple, clear recording for solo piano, Autumn finds Winston developing simple melodic motifs with studied left-hand underpinning, on hypnotic pieces like "Woods," which moves from a brisk rhythmic figure to rubato minor-key runs. Leaving pauses and breaths in all the right places, Winston suggests the play of color and light, the comfortable melancholy, and the encroaching slow-down that characterizes the fall season. Full of memorable themes, sure pacing, and whiffs of classical grandeur, Autumn is a timeless album that belongs to the firmament of the new age canon. --James Rotondi

In 1980, Keith Jarrett was the best-known solo pianist, with his string of ECM albums including the Köln Concerts and Facing You. George Winston took the lyricism and mood that made Jarrett's music so popular and refined them into what he called "folk piano" on his first Windham Hill album, Autumn. It launched a million solo pianists. As you listen to this 20th anniversary edition, it's easy to hear why. The opening "Colors/Dance" rings with the open clarity of the Montana plains, where Winston grew up. "Woods," with its quasi-classical arpeggios, seems to dance in the air. And so it goes throughout Autumn as the pianist unfolds his melodies in what sounds like spontaneous reverie. The anniversary edition includes illuminating liner notes from Winston, who cites everyone from the Doors to John Coltrane as influences on particular songs. The CD ends with a bonus track, a melancholy cover of Procol Harum's "Too Much Between Us." --John Diliberto

I bought this for a gift and my parents have loved it. They said they listen to it over and over. I have yet to listen to it myself, but I love Winston's other albums.

great album. My favorite is Longing/Love. not as good as december still a great cd.

We used this CD in raffled basket titled Autumn Romance. It was one of the featured items. It is a colorful and relaxing CD. Someone from our group bought one to use for massage background music. A must for any CD library.

It's a replacement for a cassette tape version. The recording is very clear and lifelike.

Autumn by George Winston is a truly exceptional listening experience. It is oustanding that we now have the crisp & clear album available on CD. This is a really excellent CD that is not to be missed. Whether you are a longtime fan, or a new listener to George Winston, this is a 5 star must have CD.