Non-Classical Repertoire for classical pianists?

[champy1985]

Hi guys...I asked this in other forum before. Now, I'm going to ask here. Just for the record

I'm a classical trained pianist (and organist) that also play other modern/commercials style of music such as jazz, pop, gospel, RnB and so on.

There was a time that I used to believed that there are a lot of classical pianists, who (,like me,) would like to learn other musical styles. And since I could do that, I would like to provide a bridge for classical pianist to non-classical music,so that classical pianists would be able to consume and enjoy non-classical music too... At that time my idea was to do arrangements of non-classical music that a classical pianists might be interested to play for their own or even to appeal to audience in their recitals. But at that time, I did not have enough encouragement, (plus I was really busy.) So I switched off the project.

However, lately I have been told by a few of my friends again that I should re-consider about re-starting this project. But I, myself, am still skeptical about it because I am not sure if anyone would be interesed. (it takes an enormous effort for me to write down properly, , although I arranged songs all the time. So if nobody is interested, I am not going to do it.) But if I can see that, there are enough people out there who might interested. I would work on this project.

So, by saying all this, I would like to ask you guys, classical pianists,.. if you...

1)..are interested in playing non-classical music?
2)..would think it is a good idea to have some non-classical music in your recital? (as an encore, for example?)

Any answers would be helpful or comments would be helpful for me to make decision for my career. Please do not feel that you might hurt my feeling or anything.

I appreciate every output from you guys. Thanks!

PS. In case you wonder how the arrangement I talk about would sound like, check out these few youtube clips. From there you can check out other clips as well, if you want.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=snv5ePxtHxI
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yQfFBcrFGg4




@webmaster... I'm not sure where to post this. I think here might be the most appropriated place to post. Please let me know if I should post somewhere else...

[j_menz]

From time to time I play an assortment of such music.

In my experience, though, there is no shortage of it available already.

[visitor]

I say more is merrier. Ie like this
Pure awesome

[pianoman8]

Jarrod Radnich Pirates of the Caribbean
Fats Waller Handful of Keys
Bumble Boogie
Cole Porter, Gershwin, Great American Songbook in General

[eusebius12]

A lot of Thelonious Monk I find musically and pianistically very interesting