Classical Pianist Interprets Rock Songs At Yoshi's

Adventurous pianist Christopher O'Riley's broad repertoire ranges from music of the English Renaissance to the new works of today's leading composers. Winner of top prizes at the Van Cliburn, Leeds and Busoni competitions, the master classical pianist shows his versatility with his work over much of the past decade.

Fascinated with the songs of British pop band Radiohead ever since hearing 'OK Computer' (the group's acclaimed album from 1997), O'Riley decided to reimagine a number of his favorite songs for solo piano. After performing some selections on his weekly public radio program 'From the Top,' O'Riley was surprised at the immediate response from his classically oriented listeners asking to hear more.

The virtuoso released 'True Love Waits,' a collection of tunes drawn from Radiohead's first five albums that bring new light to both the band's rich compositions and the pianist's amazing technique. O'Riley has continued to mine unusual artists for solo classical interpretation since that 2003 effort, recording an additional collection of Radiohead tracks as well as tributes to the late indie-rock songwriter Elliot Smith and tragic British folkie Nick Drake. O'Riley brings his remarkable recasting of songs by such diverse artists as Portishead, Pink Floyd, the Smiths and Nirvana from his most recent release 'Out of My Hands' when he plays this intimate show at Yoshi's in San Francisco.

KDFC In The Clubs Presents Christopher O'Riley Monday, Dec. 7, 8 p.m. $30 Yoshi's San Francisco