Ep 8. Glenn Gould: Genius Within

Glenn Gould was one of the most eccentric and enigmatic musicians of the 20th century. In American Masters season 23 episode 8, titled "Glenn Gould: Genius Within", his life and work are explored, shedding light on his incredible talent and the unique approach he had towards music.

Viewers are taken on a journey through Gould's life, starting with his childhood in Toronto, Canada. It was clear from a young age that he had a musical gift, and he quickly began pursuing a career as a pianist. Despite his success, Gould chose to retire from public performance at a young age, preferring to focus on recording in the studio.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to a behind-the-scenes look at Gould's creative process. He was known to be highly particular about the sound he wanted to achieve, often spending hours in the recording booth to perfect his work. This dedication to his craft is evident in the incredible recordings he left behind.

The episode delves deep into Gould's eccentricities, including his use of unconventional fingerings and his unique posture while playing. While these quirks may have seemed odd to some, they were essential to Gould's approach to music. He believed in creating a sound that was entirely his own, one that transcended the constraints of the written score.

Despite his preference for recordings over live performance, Gould was still able to connect with his audiences in a meaningful way. The episode explores his relationship with his fans, as well as the legacy he left behind after his untimely death at the age of 50.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Gould's life was his love for technology. He was an early adopter of the synthesizer and was fascinated by the potential for computers in the world of music. The episode explores his experiments with technology and the impact they had on his work.

"Glenn Gould: Genius Within" is a fascinating look at one of the most unique musicians of the 20th century. His incredible talent, dedication to his craft, and quirky personality are all explored in-depth, providing viewers with a deeper understanding of the man behind the music.