Bill Evans Trio with Symphony Orchestra Value Guide

This 1966 Verve Records release represents a significant milestone in Bill Evans' career, showcasing a sophisticated fusion of jazz improvisation and classical arrangements by Claus Ogerman. It is highly collectible for its unique 'Third Stream' approach, featuring interpretations of works by Bach, Chopin, and Scriabin.

What Is Bill Evans Trio with Symphony Orchestra Worth?

The typical price range for Bill Evans Trio with Symphony Orchestra is $15 - $25 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The presence and condition of the original marketing inner sleeve significantly impact the $15-$25 price range.
• Vinyl condition is paramount, as the lush orchestral passages are sensitive to surface noise and scratches.
• The state of the cardboard jacket, specifically looking for ring wear or seam splits, affects the final market value.
• First pressings from 1966 in 'Near Mint' condition command the highest prices within the established value range.

How to Identify Bill Evans Trio with Symphony Orchestra?

• Verify the Verve Records label for the 'Stereo' designation and the catalog number V6-8640.
• Check for the original mid-1960s inner sleeve featuring Verve's jazz and comedy catalog advertisements.
• Confirm the presence of Claus Ogerman's credit as conductor and arranger on both the cover and the vinyl label.
• Look for the deep groove indentation on the label, which is characteristic of early United States pressings.

History of Bill Evans Trio with Symphony Orchestra

Recorded in late 1965 and released in 1966, this album was a unique departure for Bill Evans, blending his jazz trio with a full symphony orchestra. The arrangements were handled by the renowned Claus Ogerman, creating a lush Third Stream music style that combined classical compositions by Bach, Chopin, and Scriabin with jazz improvisation. The Verve Records inner sleeve seen in the foreground was a standard marketing tool of the mid-1960s to promote their jazz and comedy catalogs.