After describing the childhood of Bill Evans, Pettinger comments on the music, assesses performances, compares Evans’ trios, and analyzes stylistic changes as he follows the pianist’s grueling schedule of personal appearances and recording dates, a schedule that he maintained compulsively until the end of his life. A pianist himself, the author brings insight to Evans’ playing, and he reveals a side of Evans’ introspective personality known only to those who knew him well.

Peter Pettinger has been an international concert pianist for more than 25 years. In addition to classical works he has recorded a jazz album with violinist Nigel Kennedy. He teaches piano and chamber music within Cambridge University.