Yo-Yo Ma and Kathryn Stott
I had the amazing good fortune of hearing Yo-Yo Ma and Kathryn Stott in concert Wednesday evening November 18th, 2015 at the Palladium in Indianapolis, IN. The Palladium is an amazing concert venue, with near perfect acoustics. I learned from review of my program that the great pianist, Michael Feinstein is the Palladium's artistic director. Indianapolis is quite fortunate to have such an amazing concert hall. Truly a work of art!!
So what can I say about Yo-Yo Ma and Kathryn Stott? Well quite simply the concert was wonderful. Their concert tour culminates 30 years of playing together, and their partnership is as strong as ever. It was an honor to be in attendance, and frankly it was a present from my husband, celebrating my 60th birthday on December 1.
This is the fifth time I have seen Yo-Yo Ma. I never tire of his artistry. He "gives it up" for the crowd, and always amazes me. I continue to think about how he plays. In the midst of any piece he enters an almost trance like state, where he is simply one with his instrument. Yo-Yo Ma is fully present, or so it seems from an amateur audience member. I can always count on Mr. Ma to inspire, and to change how I view music, every time I go to his concert.
His partner ship with Kathryn Stott is so wonderful. You can sense their friendship, and the loyal support they give to each other while concertizing. I love the fact that they have never given up on each other or their friendship, through all of the peaks and valleys of life.
Kathryn Stott ( who I have blogged about previously) is also one with her instrument. She is playing the piano, but in a performance she is in fact the piano. She plays with such conviction, and her dynamics are amazing. Her interpretation of the selections was so beautiful. Again, it was simply an honor to be there.
Yo - Yo Ma who was born in Paris began the concert with Faure's After a Dream was a tribute to the recent victims of the Paris massacre. Then Mr. Ma and Ms. Stott played a suite of songs from their Arc of Life CD, including the Bach and the Schubert Ave Marias.
They also performed Shostakovich's Sonata in D minor and Franck's Sonata in A major.
They were both so beautifully performed. Time at a concert like this truly stands still It is still amazing to watch how Yo-Yo Ma uses his bow, completely masterful.
All in all, it was an incredible evening of music. The synergy of a great musical partnership like Yo-Yo Ma and Kathryn Stott is something every music lover should witness. For just a few short hours, you are transported away from the busy-ness of your week, to a place where you can find peace, and you can collect your thoughts about what is truly good in this world.
Music, so powerful and so able to change hearts and minds. Just as I am turning 60, Yo - Yo Ma turned 60 last October 7. I hope he can continue to make a difference through his performances and CDs, and bring his message of the power of music to everyone. So privileged to attend his concerts.
Friday, November 20, 2015
Monday, November 2, 2015
Barbara Kudirka
I always manage to find the pianists and/or musicians at a party. A couple of years ago, I had the pleasure of attending my cousin's daughter's graduation party in Wilmette, Illinois. Claire took piano lessons as a younger child and in high school, and she has always had an interest in music and particularly the piano.
I had the honor of meeting her piano teacher Barbara Kudirka. We spent some time chatting about my favorite instrument, and I told her a little bit about my past piano teachers.
Before I comment on Ms. Kudirka, I want to add that the quest to find the right piano teacher for your child can be a challenge. Today, it probably involves exploring various teachers' websites on the net, and perhaps speaking with family and friends who have a favorite piano teacher.
In the case of Claire, it was actually her Dad that found her teacher. I think that it says something about her Dad, in that he believed in his mind, that music should be a priority, and was determined to find a quality teacher for Claire. Often in family situations, it can be said often, it may be the parent who didn't have music lessons, who wants to pursue that activity for their child.
I add in the case of Claire, her mom's parents bought their family a beautiful spinet piano. When I would go to visit my cousin, I would always make it a point to look at the music Claire was working on, mostly out of curiosity. And music was a priority because the piano was in the living room, with no competition from the television!! Hooray!!
In any event, I only met Barbara Kudirka at that one event, but again, it was a real piano connection as I would like to say. She seemed generally interested in what I was saying, and I add that enthusiasm of amateurs may be exactly the thing to keep piano teachers going forward in life.
Now that Linked In is available, I had the opportunity to look at Barbara's credentials. She is the Director of Worship and Music at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church in Arlington Heights, Illinois and she has degrees in Piano Performance and Piano Pedagogy from Northwestern University - School of Music. Her credentials also reference her interest in the music of the Romantic Era. That is near and dear to my heart for sure.
Not only can Barbara play the piano, she is also an organist and a choir director at her church. The role of church musician is not an easy one. One has to please the pastor, as well as the congregation, which is a challenging task for the best of musicians. However, Barbara states on her Linked In profile that as a theologically trained lay minister in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, she is called to serve the church in the areas of music and faith formation.
I must add that some of the greatest musical experiences of my life have occurred in the church setting, so even though I didn't discuss Barbara's work at her church, I feel like I share some level of kinship as a contemporary choir member in my own church.
My cousin's daughter is soon to be 25, and if she plays I think it might be just for the fun of it all. So I don't know that my path will cross with Barbara Kudirka anytime soon. But I feel that in meeting her, again, it just establishes, quite concretely, that there is a place for the piano in anyone's life. Even if you end up forsaking a career as a musician, to play the piano in the evenings, or at the Christmas holidays, the piano is there to inspire you, and make the quality of your life better.
Again, I think it takes a special person to take the time to seek out a quality piano teacher. Claire's Dad did just that when he found Barbara Kudirka. What a gift!!
I always manage to find the pianists and/or musicians at a party. A couple of years ago, I had the pleasure of attending my cousin's daughter's graduation party in Wilmette, Illinois. Claire took piano lessons as a younger child and in high school, and she has always had an interest in music and particularly the piano.
I had the honor of meeting her piano teacher Barbara Kudirka. We spent some time chatting about my favorite instrument, and I told her a little bit about my past piano teachers.
Before I comment on Ms. Kudirka, I want to add that the quest to find the right piano teacher for your child can be a challenge. Today, it probably involves exploring various teachers' websites on the net, and perhaps speaking with family and friends who have a favorite piano teacher.
In the case of Claire, it was actually her Dad that found her teacher. I think that it says something about her Dad, in that he believed in his mind, that music should be a priority, and was determined to find a quality teacher for Claire. Often in family situations, it can be said often, it may be the parent who didn't have music lessons, who wants to pursue that activity for their child.
I add in the case of Claire, her mom's parents bought their family a beautiful spinet piano. When I would go to visit my cousin, I would always make it a point to look at the music Claire was working on, mostly out of curiosity. And music was a priority because the piano was in the living room, with no competition from the television!! Hooray!!
In any event, I only met Barbara Kudirka at that one event, but again, it was a real piano connection as I would like to say. She seemed generally interested in what I was saying, and I add that enthusiasm of amateurs may be exactly the thing to keep piano teachers going forward in life.
Now that Linked In is available, I had the opportunity to look at Barbara's credentials. She is the Director of Worship and Music at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church in Arlington Heights, Illinois and she has degrees in Piano Performance and Piano Pedagogy from Northwestern University - School of Music. Her credentials also reference her interest in the music of the Romantic Era. That is near and dear to my heart for sure.
Not only can Barbara play the piano, she is also an organist and a choir director at her church. The role of church musician is not an easy one. One has to please the pastor, as well as the congregation, which is a challenging task for the best of musicians. However, Barbara states on her Linked In profile that as a theologically trained lay minister in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, she is called to serve the church in the areas of music and faith formation.
I must add that some of the greatest musical experiences of my life have occurred in the church setting, so even though I didn't discuss Barbara's work at her church, I feel like I share some level of kinship as a contemporary choir member in my own church.
My cousin's daughter is soon to be 25, and if she plays I think it might be just for the fun of it all. So I don't know that my path will cross with Barbara Kudirka anytime soon. But I feel that in meeting her, again, it just establishes, quite concretely, that there is a place for the piano in anyone's life. Even if you end up forsaking a career as a musician, to play the piano in the evenings, or at the Christmas holidays, the piano is there to inspire you, and make the quality of your life better.
Again, I think it takes a special person to take the time to seek out a quality piano teacher. Claire's Dad did just that when he found Barbara Kudirka. What a gift!!
Sunday, November 1, 2015
My musical children
I've taken some time to talk about my musical children. Sarah is 25 now, and is quite an accomplished amateur pianist. More about her in another post.
My son Michael who is 22 is musical in his own right. He took piano lessons for a very short time, and then decided to take guitar. His teacher Mike Hagerty, is a local guitarist, who has quite a following from the catholic schools in central Ohio. He is a creative guitarist, and allows students to learn pieces they are interested in, as well as introducing them to the fundamentals of the guitar.
So, this is a blog about piano, so why do I digress about Michael and the guitar? I digress, because I believe that even if children or adults do not play the piano on your home front, they still hear the piano, and it has a profound effect on their musicality as a whole.
I often found Michael checking chords he had learned on the piano. Or he would come home from high school, and he would be humming a song, and I would find him "chording it out" on the piano.
The piano provided a musical place where he could verify what he was learning on the guitar.
And if nothing else, sometimes, he would hear his sister playing, and I would finding him humming the song she was breaking apart during a practice session.
Though the piano is often the go to instrument of choice for a lot of parents, in terms of an introduction to music, I don't believe it is ever the only way to go musically. Sometimes, for what ever reason, a child will see or hear someone playing a specific instrument, and decide that very day...."Mom I want to play oboe," or "Dad I must play the saxophone."
Also, I think that one sibling playing the piano, might result in friendly competition, and thus, another child wanting to learn to play the drums or cello. If the instrument of choice, gets one to a love of music, that is all I need to hear.
Michael went on to form his own rock band in high school, and looking back they were pretty good. They even played at a local concert venue, which takes "balls" at any age.
I am just glad that my children, now that they are adults love music. They both have a basic knowledge of theory and chord structure, and they both have an amazing sense of rhythm. I can count on Michael to always enlighten me about music he cares about, taking me out of my comfort zone of classical and top forty. The piano opened the door for both of them, and each of them are on their own distinct musical journey.
I've taken some time to talk about my musical children. Sarah is 25 now, and is quite an accomplished amateur pianist. More about her in another post.
My son Michael who is 22 is musical in his own right. He took piano lessons for a very short time, and then decided to take guitar. His teacher Mike Hagerty, is a local guitarist, who has quite a following from the catholic schools in central Ohio. He is a creative guitarist, and allows students to learn pieces they are interested in, as well as introducing them to the fundamentals of the guitar.
So, this is a blog about piano, so why do I digress about Michael and the guitar? I digress, because I believe that even if children or adults do not play the piano on your home front, they still hear the piano, and it has a profound effect on their musicality as a whole.
I often found Michael checking chords he had learned on the piano. Or he would come home from high school, and he would be humming a song, and I would find him "chording it out" on the piano.
The piano provided a musical place where he could verify what he was learning on the guitar.
And if nothing else, sometimes, he would hear his sister playing, and I would finding him humming the song she was breaking apart during a practice session.
Though the piano is often the go to instrument of choice for a lot of parents, in terms of an introduction to music, I don't believe it is ever the only way to go musically. Sometimes, for what ever reason, a child will see or hear someone playing a specific instrument, and decide that very day...."Mom I want to play oboe," or "Dad I must play the saxophone."
Also, I think that one sibling playing the piano, might result in friendly competition, and thus, another child wanting to learn to play the drums or cello. If the instrument of choice, gets one to a love of music, that is all I need to hear.
Michael went on to form his own rock band in high school, and looking back they were pretty good. They even played at a local concert venue, which takes "balls" at any age.
I am just glad that my children, now that they are adults love music. They both have a basic knowledge of theory and chord structure, and they both have an amazing sense of rhythm. I can count on Michael to always enlighten me about music he cares about, taking me out of my comfort zone of classical and top forty. The piano opened the door for both of them, and each of them are on their own distinct musical journey.
Wednesday, September 23, 2015
The Baldwin Acrosonic
The very first piano I ever played was our Baldwin Acrosonic, spinet. It was a beautiful brown piano that my Dad bought for my mom in 1961. I lived in Northwest Detroit, and walked nine blocks back and forth every day to the local catholic school, Christ the King. I generally walked with my neighbor Mark James, who was one of my favorite playmates. I can still remember the day the piano came. My mom was at the corner of Vaughan and Grove Streets. We lived on Vaughan. She was almost yelling at me, actually more excited than I had ever seen "Rose a piano was just delivered....run, run...." So I took off, I don't even remember if Mark James was keeping up with me. When I got in the house, the living room, I simply could not believe it. A piano. I had always loved the piano, and loved to hear anyone and everyone play it.
Initially my mom took lessons, but with the busy-ness of three young children, caring for my maternal grandma, and of course my Dad, she announced at dinner that one of us -meaning my two brothers and I should take piano lessons. Well sitting at dinner, neither of my brothers raised their hand, so a little unsure, I raised my hand, and boom my life as an amateur pianist started.
And that brings me to a mother milestone in my own life. Yesterday my daughter Sarah bought her own piano!!!!! So amazing. Sarah is taking off in a couple of weeks to live and work as an attorney in Washington D.C. She rented a very cool space age apartment, and wanted to buy a piano.
At our lovely piano store, Graves here in Columbus, Ohio, Sarah found her piano. It's a 1943 Steinway upright, absolutely beautiful. It's a muted black color with real ivory keys. Don't get me wrong now ivory keys are wrong because of the beloved elephant population. But, think back to 1943, during World War II, pianos were a staple of every household. It was often a piece of furniture in someone's home. And for others it was source of sheer joy and entertainment.
Sarah played this piano first. It had a bit of a dark sound. But then I played it, and as Sarah listened she decided that it was beautiful in it's tone and quality. It is also a littler piano, and would be perfect in a small space.
I keep thinking, of Sarah, coming home from a busy law office day, and being able to sit down and play Disney tunes, Chopin, Bach, Mozart, Schubert. This piano is going to take her away from the hustle and bustle of clients, and malpractice worries. I can see her throwing an amazing dinner party, with 6 or seven intellectuals and hopefully the man of her dreams, and breaking into the ivories, while everyone eats a piece of graham cracker cake with chocolate frosting. Oh, to only catch a glimpse of that...maybe that is what parents miss about adult children, seeing them in their element, doing something fun and amazing.
I see a long and exciting career for Sarah, but I could also see her getting up one morning, and saying Self, I must make music a part of my life, perhaps chamber music, or playing at people's dinner parties.
I don't know if this is a forever piano for Sarah, but it's hers alone, it's a start, something she can point to and say, I truly did this for me, and no matter what happens in my life, the piano is in it, and I can continue to create joy and happiness for for myself and others.
So incredible!!!!
The very first piano I ever played was our Baldwin Acrosonic, spinet. It was a beautiful brown piano that my Dad bought for my mom in 1961. I lived in Northwest Detroit, and walked nine blocks back and forth every day to the local catholic school, Christ the King. I generally walked with my neighbor Mark James, who was one of my favorite playmates. I can still remember the day the piano came. My mom was at the corner of Vaughan and Grove Streets. We lived on Vaughan. She was almost yelling at me, actually more excited than I had ever seen "Rose a piano was just delivered....run, run...." So I took off, I don't even remember if Mark James was keeping up with me. When I got in the house, the living room, I simply could not believe it. A piano. I had always loved the piano, and loved to hear anyone and everyone play it.
Initially my mom took lessons, but with the busy-ness of three young children, caring for my maternal grandma, and of course my Dad, she announced at dinner that one of us -meaning my two brothers and I should take piano lessons. Well sitting at dinner, neither of my brothers raised their hand, so a little unsure, I raised my hand, and boom my life as an amateur pianist started.
And that brings me to a mother milestone in my own life. Yesterday my daughter Sarah bought her own piano!!!!! So amazing. Sarah is taking off in a couple of weeks to live and work as an attorney in Washington D.C. She rented a very cool space age apartment, and wanted to buy a piano.
At our lovely piano store, Graves here in Columbus, Ohio, Sarah found her piano. It's a 1943 Steinway upright, absolutely beautiful. It's a muted black color with real ivory keys. Don't get me wrong now ivory keys are wrong because of the beloved elephant population. But, think back to 1943, during World War II, pianos were a staple of every household. It was often a piece of furniture in someone's home. And for others it was source of sheer joy and entertainment.
Sarah played this piano first. It had a bit of a dark sound. But then I played it, and as Sarah listened she decided that it was beautiful in it's tone and quality. It is also a littler piano, and would be perfect in a small space.
I keep thinking, of Sarah, coming home from a busy law office day, and being able to sit down and play Disney tunes, Chopin, Bach, Mozart, Schubert. This piano is going to take her away from the hustle and bustle of clients, and malpractice worries. I can see her throwing an amazing dinner party, with 6 or seven intellectuals and hopefully the man of her dreams, and breaking into the ivories, while everyone eats a piece of graham cracker cake with chocolate frosting. Oh, to only catch a glimpse of that...maybe that is what parents miss about adult children, seeing them in their element, doing something fun and amazing.
I see a long and exciting career for Sarah, but I could also see her getting up one morning, and saying Self, I must make music a part of my life, perhaps chamber music, or playing at people's dinner parties.
I don't know if this is a forever piano for Sarah, but it's hers alone, it's a start, something she can point to and say, I truly did this for me, and no matter what happens in my life, the piano is in it, and I can continue to create joy and happiness for for myself and others.
So incredible!!!!
Tuesday, September 15, 2015
Piano playing commanders in chief
It's difficult to believe that the Presidential election season is upon us. For someone like me who lives in Ohio, basically a swing state, the campaign ads, and robotic telephone calls are already happening. I started to think about Presidents and music, and wondered how many Presidents played the piano. Since I was born in 1955, I decide to focus on two Presidents, who (through a news clip) I have seen play the piano.
President Harry Truman was a pianist. His performances have been captured on film and can be seen on Youtube, according to a March 12, 2012 article on America's top ten musical Presidents by David Guion. It was a known fact that President Truman enjoyed playing Chopin. I must admit that simply knowing President Truman liked to play the piano, has added to my great admiration for him, and his time as President. I think dedication to any musical instrument and particularly the piano, is a sign of an industrious, hard-working individual, a trait needed to be a successful president. I guess I identify with a person who plays the piano, and places a priority on my favorite instrument, as an integral part of his or her life.
In reading David McCullough's book about Truman, he described several things about Truman, including his voracious appetite for books, as well as his attention to mastering the piano. Looking at his role as Vice President under President Roosevelt, and in his time as President at the end of World War II, I am sure his ability to play the piano, served him well in tense times.
President Richard Nixon was also an accomplished pianist. He apparently played the accordion and violin as well. In Mr. Guion's article he references a clip from the Jack Paar Show, that featured President Nixon performing a short piece he had composed. President Nixon had strengths as well as weaknesses, but no matter how the Watergate scandal is viewed in history, it is somewhat comforting to know that even he, turned to music.
Though he was not a pianist, one cannot help but recognize that President Bill Clinton played the saxophone well enough to win first chair in his all--state band, and he actually considered music as a career according to David Guion. As a young mother in 1992, and a person who loves music, it was incredible that he played Heartbreak Hotel on the Arsenio Hall show. It was the first time since President John F. Kennedy, that I could say a president was truly cool.
As the political season unfolds, it takes a little bit of the stress out of the process, when I realize that even larger than life political figures look to music and particularly the piano, for relaxation, and creativity. I think if I could hear a any president play his chosen instrument it would have to be President Truman. He loved Chopin, and so do I. It just creates a bond that you can feel with a person you never had the opportunity to meet. Beyond his political stance as a Democrat, my most beloved of political parties, I can still dream and envision him, sitting down and playing something for the sheer joy of it.
Think about our musical presidents the next time the telephone rings with a paid political announcement!
It's difficult to believe that the Presidential election season is upon us. For someone like me who lives in Ohio, basically a swing state, the campaign ads, and robotic telephone calls are already happening. I started to think about Presidents and music, and wondered how many Presidents played the piano. Since I was born in 1955, I decide to focus on two Presidents, who (through a news clip) I have seen play the piano.
President Harry Truman was a pianist. His performances have been captured on film and can be seen on Youtube, according to a March 12, 2012 article on America's top ten musical Presidents by David Guion. It was a known fact that President Truman enjoyed playing Chopin. I must admit that simply knowing President Truman liked to play the piano, has added to my great admiration for him, and his time as President. I think dedication to any musical instrument and particularly the piano, is a sign of an industrious, hard-working individual, a trait needed to be a successful president. I guess I identify with a person who plays the piano, and places a priority on my favorite instrument, as an integral part of his or her life.
In reading David McCullough's book about Truman, he described several things about Truman, including his voracious appetite for books, as well as his attention to mastering the piano. Looking at his role as Vice President under President Roosevelt, and in his time as President at the end of World War II, I am sure his ability to play the piano, served him well in tense times.
President Richard Nixon was also an accomplished pianist. He apparently played the accordion and violin as well. In Mr. Guion's article he references a clip from the Jack Paar Show, that featured President Nixon performing a short piece he had composed. President Nixon had strengths as well as weaknesses, but no matter how the Watergate scandal is viewed in history, it is somewhat comforting to know that even he, turned to music.
Though he was not a pianist, one cannot help but recognize that President Bill Clinton played the saxophone well enough to win first chair in his all--state band, and he actually considered music as a career according to David Guion. As a young mother in 1992, and a person who loves music, it was incredible that he played Heartbreak Hotel on the Arsenio Hall show. It was the first time since President John F. Kennedy, that I could say a president was truly cool.
As the political season unfolds, it takes a little bit of the stress out of the process, when I realize that even larger than life political figures look to music and particularly the piano, for relaxation, and creativity. I think if I could hear a any president play his chosen instrument it would have to be President Truman. He loved Chopin, and so do I. It just creates a bond that you can feel with a person you never had the opportunity to meet. Beyond his political stance as a Democrat, my most beloved of political parties, I can still dream and envision him, sitting down and playing something for the sheer joy of it.
Think about our musical presidents the next time the telephone rings with a paid political announcement!
Thursday, August 20, 2015
My 60th birthday with Yo-Yo Ma
I cannot believe I am writing about this today, but for my 60th birthday December 1, 1955, I am going to see Yo-Yo Ma and Kathryn Stott at the Palladium in Carmel, Indiana on November 18, 2015. I must admit that my favorite musician of all of the entire time I have been on this earth is Yo-Yo Ma, and I will probably write more about that later. But seeing Kathryn Stott is an absolute dream come true. Ms. Stott and Mr. Ma have quite a connection over many years, and when you hear them play you can tell.
I cannot believe I am writing about this today, but for my 60th birthday December 1, 1955, I am going to see Yo-Yo Ma and Kathryn Stott at the Palladium in Carmel, Indiana on November 18, 2015. I must admit that my favorite musician of all of the entire time I have been on this earth is Yo-Yo Ma, and I will probably write more about that later. But seeing Kathryn Stott is an absolute dream come true. Ms. Stott and Mr. Ma have quite a connection over many years, and when you hear them play you can tell.
I am the proud owner of the Soul of the Tango CD. Mr. Ma and Ms. Stott perform on the cd together. I can only say when I was young, my high school teacher Katherine Lemon would always tell me to play like a man, during grand sections of many piano works, and I add that is how Kathryn Stott plays. It is quite amazing.
A pianist I admire, has even admitted to cleaning her house to the Soul of the Tango CD. Though the piano and the cello are solo instruments, it is truly musically incredible, when the two instruments are put together. Both Mr. Ma and Ms. Stott take their collaboration very seriously, and I can only predict, that November 18th is going to be one amazing evening of music.
Ms. Stott also performs with Mr. Ma on the amazing Paris -La Belle Epoque CD. Ms. Stt is a Faure expert, and the Faure Sonata in A on this CD is quite amazing. Take a look at her website www.kathrynstott.com and you can see all of the amazing CDs she has recorded. I haven't purchased it yet, but I would love to buy her Chopin Favourite Nocturnes, in part because I have studied several of the Nocturnes and simply want to be inspired. Whenever a great musician plays a piece you have played, it allows you to see how much hard work is ahead of you. Yet it also allows you to dream, even just for a moment, about the challenges, and whether the pianist had those same challenges. Did this pianist find measure 37 for instance as difficult as you did? Did this pianist ever take the score, throw it on the practice room floor and scream a loud Charlie Brown AAAAAAARGH!!!!!
In reviewing her website, I realized that she has partnered with Mr. Ma for 30 years, and that her 2015 concertizing celebrates that partnership. She has also engaged in philanthropic efforts to raise money for HIV research and Nordoff-Robbins Music Therapy.
I still have the ticket stub for a Yo-Yo Ma Concert I attended in the late 1990s. I actually met him at a reception following the concert, and he was truly the same as he appears on television and in concert. He was incredibly gracious, to his fans and so un-assuming. It was a dream come true believe me. I add that Yo-Yo Ma also celebrates his 60th birthday this year on October 7. I wonder if he ever says to himself, so much music and so little time. Or does he simply think, so much music, but I am going to continue to perform and make a difference every day, I am lucky enough to be here.
Well as pianists we can look at the two foregoing schools of thought when we look at the depth and breadth of the piano repertoire. In any event, attending this concert is simply going to make me grateful! I hope my seats are on the left side of the concert hall, so I can learn something about performing from Ms. Stott!
Saturday, July 4, 2015
Edward Rosser
Per usual, I spend some time during the week scouting around the internet for interesting articles and websites about the piano. Today I mention www.edwardrosser.com Edward Rosser is an extremely gifted and talented pianist. He would not remember this, but we both attended Albion College beginning in 1973 and 1974. I left Albion after my freshman year, to attend Michigan State University, and circle back to my posse of high school friends who were there, but I believe Mr. Rosser graduated from Albion.
During that first college year he and I took piano from the same professor, and I believe he had the lesson directly after mine. I stayed after some time, and even though he was in a closed piano studio, I often heard him play and he played with great musicality and technical ability. I also admit that the piano professor I had that year, traumatized me enough, that I didn't take lessons for many years, and actually abandoned any hope of pursuing any thing with the piano as an amateur or professional.
When I think back about that now, and where I am currently with the piano, I believe, that if you do not jell up with a teacher, you must analyze what you want from a piano teacher, and go out and find it. You can not let any person stop your relationship with the piano and music, if you love it. But back to Edward Rosser.
If you have the opportunity to go to his website, you can see how his career as a pianist has evolved. In his website introductory page he spend some time explaining how his technique has evolved and the time he spent re working his piano technique. Though many amateur pianists know their technique is not the best, most of us playing for pure enjoyment do not spend any time looking at their actual technique and making changes.
Currently on his website, there is a "clip" of Mr. Rosser playing Chopin's Nocturne in C# minor. Though I have studied this nocturne, and brought it to a what I thought was a respectable level, after listening to Mr. Rosser's version, I have a way to go.
I add that I love this nocturne, and I believe it was one of the theme pieces in the film, the Pianist. Do take some time to listen to this clip by Mr. Rosser as it is quite amazing.
In reading his website, and about his life as a full time musician, he is focused on teaching, performing and recording. However, the most amazing thing is that Mr. Rosser takes his piano to the street, and refers to it as "the great auditorium under the sky." The piano is such an amazing instrument, and I continually believe that it must be brought to the people. He mentions on his website and I quote "a musician is truly free to play for the sheer joy of playing, where spontaneity and communication are more valued than perfection; here a musician can try new repertoire, experiment, refine his playing by performing certain pieces hundreds of times...."
I have not purchased any of his cds, but after reviewing his website, I plan to do so. I hope when I get the opportunity to go to Boston for a law conference, I will have the opportunity to hear him making music on the street. Amazing!
Per usual, I spend some time during the week scouting around the internet for interesting articles and websites about the piano. Today I mention www.edwardrosser.com Edward Rosser is an extremely gifted and talented pianist. He would not remember this, but we both attended Albion College beginning in 1973 and 1974. I left Albion after my freshman year, to attend Michigan State University, and circle back to my posse of high school friends who were there, but I believe Mr. Rosser graduated from Albion.
During that first college year he and I took piano from the same professor, and I believe he had the lesson directly after mine. I stayed after some time, and even though he was in a closed piano studio, I often heard him play and he played with great musicality and technical ability. I also admit that the piano professor I had that year, traumatized me enough, that I didn't take lessons for many years, and actually abandoned any hope of pursuing any thing with the piano as an amateur or professional.
When I think back about that now, and where I am currently with the piano, I believe, that if you do not jell up with a teacher, you must analyze what you want from a piano teacher, and go out and find it. You can not let any person stop your relationship with the piano and music, if you love it. But back to Edward Rosser.
If you have the opportunity to go to his website, you can see how his career as a pianist has evolved. In his website introductory page he spend some time explaining how his technique has evolved and the time he spent re working his piano technique. Though many amateur pianists know their technique is not the best, most of us playing for pure enjoyment do not spend any time looking at their actual technique and making changes.
Currently on his website, there is a "clip" of Mr. Rosser playing Chopin's Nocturne in C# minor. Though I have studied this nocturne, and brought it to a what I thought was a respectable level, after listening to Mr. Rosser's version, I have a way to go.
I add that I love this nocturne, and I believe it was one of the theme pieces in the film, the Pianist. Do take some time to listen to this clip by Mr. Rosser as it is quite amazing.
In reading his website, and about his life as a full time musician, he is focused on teaching, performing and recording. However, the most amazing thing is that Mr. Rosser takes his piano to the street, and refers to it as "the great auditorium under the sky." The piano is such an amazing instrument, and I continually believe that it must be brought to the people. He mentions on his website and I quote "a musician is truly free to play for the sheer joy of playing, where spontaneity and communication are more valued than perfection; here a musician can try new repertoire, experiment, refine his playing by performing certain pieces hundreds of times...."
I have not purchased any of his cds, but after reviewing his website, I plan to do so. I hope when I get the opportunity to go to Boston for a law conference, I will have the opportunity to hear him making music on the street. Amazing!
Monday, June 1, 2015
Anna Vinnitskaya
I had the opportunity to hear the pianist Anna Vinnitskaya, over Memorial Day Weekend. She played the Brahms Concerto No. 1. It was truly amazing. And the additional gem of the evening was having Thomas Wilkins conduct the Columbus Symphony.
Ms. Vinnitskaya played beautifully. The concerto is difficult, and she "really gave it up" for the fans. Any work by Brahms is not for the faint of heart, and Ms. Vinnitskaya proved she was up to the challenge. I particularly loved the second movement, the Adagio. She played with great feeling and conviction, and there is a feeling of being taken to another place and time whenever you hear this movement.
But for me it is the last movement, because as you listen to you get the feeling you are hearing Bach and Beethoven. The great composers are intertwined in the theme. It is so amazing. I also add that the performances by the oboes and bassoons of the orchestra added so much. There is much quality musicianship in the Columbus Symphony.
Maestro Wilkins was so touched by Ms. Vinnitskaya's playing, and even wiped the sweat off her brow with his hankerchief He is one conductor, who can convey so much about his love for a performer, without saying a word. He's simply amazing.
In fact, Thomas Wilkins' story should be noted. I read on Wikipedia that he was raised by a single mom. When he was very young he heard an orchestral performance of The Star Spangled Banner, and that inspired him right then and there to be a conductor. That is simply so amazing. It is exactly that type of humble beginning, that reminds us all, that we truly can do and be anything.
Back to Ms. Vinnitskaya, she simply was so connected to the concerto, the orchestra and the director. I often wonder how one digs that deep to play with such great courage. You can listen to her wonderful music as she records on the French label Naive. Her first CD contains works by Rachmaninov, Gubaidulina, Medtner and Prokofiev. She also has a third CD dedicated to Maurice Ravel. So much music to listen to and yet so little time.
As an amateur, it was a beautiful night of piano. It is amazing what one instrument with 88 keys can bring to the table, especially when played by such a capable artist as Anna Vinnitskaya!
I had the opportunity to hear the pianist Anna Vinnitskaya, over Memorial Day Weekend. She played the Brahms Concerto No. 1. It was truly amazing. And the additional gem of the evening was having Thomas Wilkins conduct the Columbus Symphony.
Ms. Vinnitskaya played beautifully. The concerto is difficult, and she "really gave it up" for the fans. Any work by Brahms is not for the faint of heart, and Ms. Vinnitskaya proved she was up to the challenge. I particularly loved the second movement, the Adagio. She played with great feeling and conviction, and there is a feeling of being taken to another place and time whenever you hear this movement.
But for me it is the last movement, because as you listen to you get the feeling you are hearing Bach and Beethoven. The great composers are intertwined in the theme. It is so amazing. I also add that the performances by the oboes and bassoons of the orchestra added so much. There is much quality musicianship in the Columbus Symphony.
Maestro Wilkins was so touched by Ms. Vinnitskaya's playing, and even wiped the sweat off her brow with his hankerchief He is one conductor, who can convey so much about his love for a performer, without saying a word. He's simply amazing.
In fact, Thomas Wilkins' story should be noted. I read on Wikipedia that he was raised by a single mom. When he was very young he heard an orchestral performance of The Star Spangled Banner, and that inspired him right then and there to be a conductor. That is simply so amazing. It is exactly that type of humble beginning, that reminds us all, that we truly can do and be anything.
Back to Ms. Vinnitskaya, she simply was so connected to the concerto, the orchestra and the director. I often wonder how one digs that deep to play with such great courage. You can listen to her wonderful music as she records on the French label Naive. Her first CD contains works by Rachmaninov, Gubaidulina, Medtner and Prokofiev. She also has a third CD dedicated to Maurice Ravel. So much music to listen to and yet so little time.
As an amateur, it was a beautiful night of piano. It is amazing what one instrument with 88 keys can bring to the table, especially when played by such a capable artist as Anna Vinnitskaya!
Wednesday, May 20, 2015
Sarah Catherine Pomeroy, attorney at law and pianist
My daughter Sarah is an amateur pianist. She is 24 now, and started taking lessons when she was either 6 or 7. I cannot recall exactly now, as the years have passed. The piano has always been a part of Sarah's life, and I noticed her musicality even at a young age.
When I was a young mother, I had a book of Disney themes for the piano. Sarah particularly enjoyed the theme to Winnie-the-Pooh, and the Mickey Mouse Club march. Our piano was always in the living room, so there was a room completely devoted to the piano Sarah would often sit on the little sofa in the living room and she often held a wooden stick. Sarah would point the stick at me and command that I play Winnie - the - Pooh, or Mickey Mouse Club, and she would march around the room. As soon as I stopped she would demand, that I play it again.
I often would sit her on my lap and point out the keys or the notes, or let her plink out any notes she wanted while I played. Sarah was fascinated with the instrument, and quickly decided that she wanted to take lessons.
I think she started lessons with the amazing Madeline Karn in 1st or 2nd grade. Sarah seemed to pick up the piano quickly, and along with her Piano Adventures series of books, I always made sure that Sarah also had a book or piece of music that she chose. I remember when she had a beginning book of "Peanuts" music, and how much that book influenced her playing. In fact I think she has a real talent for jazz piano playing, and I could see her taking that talent to another level at some point in her life.
Sarah's lessons continued through school, and sports and marching band. Piano was simply part of her life, and she never waivered in her commitment to the instrument. As she progressed, Sarah often practiced while I was making dinner. I may have been sautee-ing chicken, but I was also listening to a steady progression of Bach, and Beethoven and Schubert, along with Disney tunes and songs from Broadway shows.
Sarah's teacher Madeline Karn did not have a yearly piano recital to my regret, but when Sarah was a senior she did perform a senior recital. At first, when I saw her ambitious program I started to get heart palpitations, but as I listened to her practice I saw that the program was something she could accomplish.
The evening of her recital I was so touched by the people in attendance, relatives, friends, some of her teachers....it was so incredible. Sarah started the evening playing Always, which was my mom's favorite song. My mom had died in 2004, and the recital was in 2008, so she was unable to attend.
It was simply so incredible.
Sarah played Schubert, Scott Joplin, and many other incredible pieces. She also did her own rendition of Take Five by Dave Brubeck...it was a wonderful evening.
Sarah just graduated from law school at Ohio State this past week. She is studying for the bar examination now, and I think piano playing will consist of short intervals to play out her stress. Sarah is moving to Washington DC in October and I am going to miss the impromptu dinner time concerts. She kept the piano side of her on the "down low" throughout law school, but she did play at the law school talent show, and I hope that her law colleagues, saw that it is the piano that really makes her the incredible person she is today. When she is at the piano, she goes to a deep musical place, to spread the joy that she feels about this beloved instrument.
For some reason when she is at the piano, she isn't Sarah the student, or Sarah the leader, or Sarah the extrovert, instead she is a vehicle to play out the musical message, taking the essence of the music, to the people she cares so much about. By playing the piano, she is saying, forget everything you think about me and what you preconceive about me, and listen to the music I am creating for you.
Right now she is planning to buy a piano and take it with her to Washington DC. I would like to think that someday she will trade me, and I will take her small apartment piano to an assisted living facility and she will take my beautiful, black, six- foot Baldwin Grand to a wonderful home where music and the piano will be the center of her family's home and life.
My daughter Sarah is an amateur pianist. She is 24 now, and started taking lessons when she was either 6 or 7. I cannot recall exactly now, as the years have passed. The piano has always been a part of Sarah's life, and I noticed her musicality even at a young age.
When I was a young mother, I had a book of Disney themes for the piano. Sarah particularly enjoyed the theme to Winnie-the-Pooh, and the Mickey Mouse Club march. Our piano was always in the living room, so there was a room completely devoted to the piano Sarah would often sit on the little sofa in the living room and she often held a wooden stick. Sarah would point the stick at me and command that I play Winnie - the - Pooh, or Mickey Mouse Club, and she would march around the room. As soon as I stopped she would demand, that I play it again.
I often would sit her on my lap and point out the keys or the notes, or let her plink out any notes she wanted while I played. Sarah was fascinated with the instrument, and quickly decided that she wanted to take lessons.
I think she started lessons with the amazing Madeline Karn in 1st or 2nd grade. Sarah seemed to pick up the piano quickly, and along with her Piano Adventures series of books, I always made sure that Sarah also had a book or piece of music that she chose. I remember when she had a beginning book of "Peanuts" music, and how much that book influenced her playing. In fact I think she has a real talent for jazz piano playing, and I could see her taking that talent to another level at some point in her life.
Sarah's lessons continued through school, and sports and marching band. Piano was simply part of her life, and she never waivered in her commitment to the instrument. As she progressed, Sarah often practiced while I was making dinner. I may have been sautee-ing chicken, but I was also listening to a steady progression of Bach, and Beethoven and Schubert, along with Disney tunes and songs from Broadway shows.
Sarah's teacher Madeline Karn did not have a yearly piano recital to my regret, but when Sarah was a senior she did perform a senior recital. At first, when I saw her ambitious program I started to get heart palpitations, but as I listened to her practice I saw that the program was something she could accomplish.
The evening of her recital I was so touched by the people in attendance, relatives, friends, some of her teachers....it was so incredible. Sarah started the evening playing Always, which was my mom's favorite song. My mom had died in 2004, and the recital was in 2008, so she was unable to attend.
It was simply so incredible.
Sarah played Schubert, Scott Joplin, and many other incredible pieces. She also did her own rendition of Take Five by Dave Brubeck...it was a wonderful evening.
Sarah just graduated from law school at Ohio State this past week. She is studying for the bar examination now, and I think piano playing will consist of short intervals to play out her stress. Sarah is moving to Washington DC in October and I am going to miss the impromptu dinner time concerts. She kept the piano side of her on the "down low" throughout law school, but she did play at the law school talent show, and I hope that her law colleagues, saw that it is the piano that really makes her the incredible person she is today. When she is at the piano, she goes to a deep musical place, to spread the joy that she feels about this beloved instrument.
For some reason when she is at the piano, she isn't Sarah the student, or Sarah the leader, or Sarah the extrovert, instead she is a vehicle to play out the musical message, taking the essence of the music, to the people she cares so much about. By playing the piano, she is saying, forget everything you think about me and what you preconceive about me, and listen to the music I am creating for you.
Right now she is planning to buy a piano and take it with her to Washington DC. I would like to think that someday she will trade me, and I will take her small apartment piano to an assisted living facility and she will take my beautiful, black, six- foot Baldwin Grand to a wonderful home where music and the piano will be the center of her family's home and life.
Jule Styne
I made the grand assumption that Jule Styne composed the music for "I'm Flying" for Peter Pan, in part because he composed "Never Never Land." Well I was wrong. "I'm Flying was composed by Mark Charlap and the Lyrics were by Carolyn Leigh.
I have a wonderful book of Peter Pan music, that was published by the Edwin H. Morris and Company and distributed by Hal-Leonard. The book has Mary Martin on the cover, so I would like to think that this book of music is close to the original score. Mary Martin and I share a birthday December 1, so I have always had an affinity for her musicality, her singing, in a traditional Broadway style.
So what is it about "I'm Flying" Well it is in the key of B -Flat, which is a relatively easy key to sight-read. Also, the piece buildings in momentum, as if you were flying while playing it.
In the words of an amateur, it is the kind of piece that "can get away from you." So if you start off in a slow tempo, you probably shouldn't be finishing in a much faster tempo. So, on some level, it is a good piece to work on controlling the metronome speed you originally set for yourself.
In contrast, there is the great Jule Styne piece "Never Never Land." It is a beautiful ballad in the key of F and in 4/4 time cut. It is a piece that if played as written, it sends a very clear message. It is also a piece that many play in a manner different from what is written, and that may take away from the story the ballad is telling. On page 2 of my version, in measure 6 there is a pause that should be emphasized...the lyric is "For once you have found your way there PAUSE you can never, never grow old. The pause must be emphasized, because the result is the concept of never growing old, although we all do.
There are also dotted eighth notes followed by a sixteenth, if that tempo is not clearly followed, the measures can sound rather sing -songy....referring to the words "Just think of lovely things, and your heart will fly on wings, ....etc"
I never tire of this ballad, I think it can set the tone for a calm and peaceful set of music, if you are playing after a dinner party.
The book is one I cannot part with, under any circumstances.
I made the grand assumption that Jule Styne composed the music for "I'm Flying" for Peter Pan, in part because he composed "Never Never Land." Well I was wrong. "I'm Flying was composed by Mark Charlap and the Lyrics were by Carolyn Leigh.
I have a wonderful book of Peter Pan music, that was published by the Edwin H. Morris and Company and distributed by Hal-Leonard. The book has Mary Martin on the cover, so I would like to think that this book of music is close to the original score. Mary Martin and I share a birthday December 1, so I have always had an affinity for her musicality, her singing, in a traditional Broadway style.
So what is it about "I'm Flying" Well it is in the key of B -Flat, which is a relatively easy key to sight-read. Also, the piece buildings in momentum, as if you were flying while playing it.
In the words of an amateur, it is the kind of piece that "can get away from you." So if you start off in a slow tempo, you probably shouldn't be finishing in a much faster tempo. So, on some level, it is a good piece to work on controlling the metronome speed you originally set for yourself.
In contrast, there is the great Jule Styne piece "Never Never Land." It is a beautiful ballad in the key of F and in 4/4 time cut. It is a piece that if played as written, it sends a very clear message. It is also a piece that many play in a manner different from what is written, and that may take away from the story the ballad is telling. On page 2 of my version, in measure 6 there is a pause that should be emphasized...the lyric is "For once you have found your way there PAUSE you can never, never grow old. The pause must be emphasized, because the result is the concept of never growing old, although we all do.
There are also dotted eighth notes followed by a sixteenth, if that tempo is not clearly followed, the measures can sound rather sing -songy....referring to the words "Just think of lovely things, and your heart will fly on wings, ....etc"
I never tire of this ballad, I think it can set the tone for a calm and peaceful set of music, if you are playing after a dinner party.
The book is one I cannot part with, under any circumstances.
Monday, April 13, 2015
Stevie Wonder
April 1, 2015, I made a musical dream come true, as I saw Stevie Wonder in concert at the Schottenstein Center at Ohio State University. Since I lived in Detroit for the first 31 years of my life, I was always in love with Motown music. Stevie Wonder and Aretha Franklin became my all time favorites. I remember the first time I heard Fingertips, and I realized this many creates, he improvises, yes that song changed how I viewed music forevermore.
April 1, 2015, I made a musical dream come true, as I saw Stevie Wonder in concert at the Schottenstein Center at Ohio State University. Since I lived in Detroit for the first 31 years of my life, I was always in love with Motown music. Stevie Wonder and Aretha Franklin became my all time favorites. I remember the first time I heard Fingertips, and I realized this many creates, he improvises, yes that song changed how I viewed music forevermore.
So what is Stevie Wonder like in concert? AMAZING! I think his main instrument is the piano, but in reality he is excellent at the harmonica, and is an incredible percussionist. Until you see him in concert, you just forget about his versatility. He also is an incredible singer. He can be Sammy Davis Jr., Frank Sinatra, a rap singer, again complete versatility. He also can sing very high and very low, and he has a strong sharing voice between his higher and lower registers.
And most importantly, Stevie Wonder is blind, but through his music he sees. However, when you are in the middle of his concert is important to be aware that he is bling. It is amazing how losing one sense, causes the others to come to the forefront with greater magnicification.
I have to admit, I was simply amazed at his stamina. He got on stage late 845, for an 800 pm gig, but that didn't matter. He played until mid night with about a 20 minute break. I kept saying to myself, "what kind of vitamins does this man take?" His concert was about his Songs in the Key of Life album, which is probably one of the greatest works of art of all time. I keep saying amazing because I don't know what else to say. He sang almost every song on the two disc album. He also had an amazing singer India Iri, (I probably spelled her name wrong) who simply had an incredible, incredible voice.
During the middle of the concert, he also played an instrument that looked like a small electronic dulcimer....like a piano. Watching Stevie Wonder's hands through the binoculars, I kept saying to myself his hands are a miracle. Hands that play a synthesizer, a piano, a harmonica, a drum, a cymbal, I don't know, it is hard to put into words how incredible it was.
Stevie Wonder seems to just bring musicians together. His back up singers were amazing, such incredible voices, and his instrumentalists were phenomenal. I kept repeating over and over again, I cannot believe I am actually here. The end of the concert was so amazing because he just played one major hit after another and again, I thought his level of energy was beyond words.
I brought my children 24 and 21 to the concert along with my husband. We all agreed that it was one of the best concerts we have ever been to. One thing Mr. Wonder does, even in a large concert venue is connect with the audience. He has a great, kind of goofy sense of humor, and when he is performing it feels like you are the only person in the room. So, so, amazing. He also brings his concern for social justice issues to the concert stage. His themes of racial equality, peace, consideration for others still came through, loud and clear throughout the concert venue.
In his song es une historia, there is a line where he sings " I am singing with love from the heart" That is the essence of his music. There are several chambers in his heart, and all of the chambers of his heart contain the love he has for everyone, and he expresses that through his amazing music.
I know Stevie Wonder is more than just a pianist, but I feel like a part of piano playing soul comes from listening to and identifying with his music. His music has always made my life so much better. When my children were very small, I would always play CDs in the car. I had the 4 CD set "At the Close of the Century" and I played those 4 cds a lot when my children were 10 and 7. I believe quite wholeheartedly, that his music contributed to the why behind my children being musical.
I would love to meet Stevie Wonder, and I know I won't. But if I did, I would tell him that his music has truly made an amazing difference in my musical life. I actually have a piano book of his songs. They are not easy, and the rhythms are challenging. Yet when I plink through any of them, I feel as if I am one step closer to knowing something deep about Stevie Wonder. In his song Magic there is a line...'if it's magic than why can't it be ever lasting" That basically sums up his music, it is magic and it is everlasting.
Friday, March 20, 2015
Thoughts about Earl Wild
Earl Wild
You can expect to see several posts from me about purchasing my grand piano and the great pianist Earl Wild. Tonight is a combination post.
I always dreamed of owning a grand piano, glossy black, six foot long and beautiful. I had a Baldwin piano growing up so I thought, I will buy a Baldwin Grand. Interestingly, my favorite pianist is Emmanuel Ax, and I read once that he was a Baldwin artist. He probably is actually a Steinway artist, but somewhere I had read he was a Baldwin artist and that was good enough for me. So I decided to buy a Baldwin Grand.
I shared this dream with my daughter Sarah when she was about 9 years old. I told her that we were going to buy a grand piano, and her response was always "okay mom" and she would clap.
One day after a busy day at St. Michael School, Sarah and I drove over to Graves Piano and Organ, the Steinway and Baldwin dealer in Columbus, Ohio I was in jeans and a sweat shirt, and for some reason Sarah was in similar dress. I walked into the store, and told the receptionist I was looking at grand pianos. I think from my dress she thought I wasn't serious. But I was. What she didn't know is that I had $10,000 in cash from my maternal grandmother. My grandma had kept a $10,000 savings bond with the sole purpose of contributing to my grand piano fund.
I was in a large show room, and Sarah and I were looking at Steinways, Baldwins and Bechsteins. Several men walked into the show room, and out of the corner of my eye, I could see that Earl Wild was with them. I knew he lived in my home town of Worthington, and I knew he was a famous pianist. He looked at me and Sarah and asked me "are you thinking of buying that piano?" I told him yes, and he just smiled. He didn't say anything else, and he didn't comment about whether my choice was good or bad. I add that the piano was $25,000 and that was going to be my financial limit. Just seeing Earl Wild at that point in time, was amazing. I've always taken that chance encounter as a sign, I guess a musical sign.
In any event, I had my piano tuner go over and take a look at it, and he confirmed that the piano met my requirements. I add that this was the most incredible material possession I have ever purchased. Owning a grand confirmed to me, that I was a good enough pianist to actually own a grand piano. After I made the purchase and before delivery, I would wake up in the middle of the night, and literally pinch myself. I could not believe that my biggest material dream was coming through. So incredible.
Now whenever I go down the stairs in the morning and look in the living room and see my piano, I know that all is right with the world. No matter what peaks and valleys I have in life, knowing that I realized my dream, with the help of my grandmother never ceases to amaze me. I add that my grand mother was widowed at 49 and went to work in a factory to support my mom. She always purchased savings bonds, and bought one for me that grew to $10,000. She almost gave it to me to help with law school tuition, but she knew I wanted to buy a grand piano, so she kept that bond, for me. She died in 1993 and did not see me realize my dream. I believe I purchased my piano in 1999 or 2000. I will have to confirm that with my piano tuner. But I am a spiritual person, and I know she can see that I DID purchase that piano!!
My mom did see me buy this piano, though which was so incredible. My Dad had Alzheimer's by that time and didn't know me, but my mom was truly happy that I made the piano purchase, happen in her life time. When she came over to my house right after it was delivered, I could tell how truly happy she was for me. As a parent, you can always be happy when your child realizes a major dream.
So, what has owning a grand piano done for me? I think I play better because it is a better instrument. I also like the full sound the piano produces. It literally fills the room with beautiful sound. It also makes me feel like I am a real musician. I know I'm not, I'm just your crazy, piano playing fool, but when I sit down at that piano, I am transformed. I play with more feeling, and more attention to detail.
There will be many more blog posts about my piano. Suffice to say, I am a proud owner of the greatest of instruments. It may not be a Steinway, but it a beautiful sounding instrument that makes every day seem filled with peace and joy.
You can expect to see several posts from me about purchasing my grand piano and the great pianist Earl Wild. Tonight is a combination post.
I always dreamed of owning a grand piano, glossy black, six foot long and beautiful. I had a Baldwin piano growing up so I thought, I will buy a Baldwin Grand. Interestingly, my favorite pianist is Emmanuel Ax, and I read once that he was a Baldwin artist. He probably is actually a Steinway artist, but somewhere I had read he was a Baldwin artist and that was good enough for me. So I decided to buy a Baldwin Grand.
I shared this dream with my daughter Sarah when she was about 9 years old. I told her that we were going to buy a grand piano, and her response was always "okay mom" and she would clap.
One day after a busy day at St. Michael School, Sarah and I drove over to Graves Piano and Organ, the Steinway and Baldwin dealer in Columbus, Ohio I was in jeans and a sweat shirt, and for some reason Sarah was in similar dress. I walked into the store, and told the receptionist I was looking at grand pianos. I think from my dress she thought I wasn't serious. But I was. What she didn't know is that I had $10,000 in cash from my maternal grandmother. My grandma had kept a $10,000 savings bond with the sole purpose of contributing to my grand piano fund.
I was in a large show room, and Sarah and I were looking at Steinways, Baldwins and Bechsteins. Several men walked into the show room, and out of the corner of my eye, I could see that Earl Wild was with them. I knew he lived in my home town of Worthington, and I knew he was a famous pianist. He looked at me and Sarah and asked me "are you thinking of buying that piano?" I told him yes, and he just smiled. He didn't say anything else, and he didn't comment about whether my choice was good or bad. I add that the piano was $25,000 and that was going to be my financial limit. Just seeing Earl Wild at that point in time, was amazing. I've always taken that chance encounter as a sign, I guess a musical sign.
In any event, I had my piano tuner go over and take a look at it, and he confirmed that the piano met my requirements. I add that this was the most incredible material possession I have ever purchased. Owning a grand confirmed to me, that I was a good enough pianist to actually own a grand piano. After I made the purchase and before delivery, I would wake up in the middle of the night, and literally pinch myself. I could not believe that my biggest material dream was coming through. So incredible.
Now whenever I go down the stairs in the morning and look in the living room and see my piano, I know that all is right with the world. No matter what peaks and valleys I have in life, knowing that I realized my dream, with the help of my grandmother never ceases to amaze me. I add that my grand mother was widowed at 49 and went to work in a factory to support my mom. She always purchased savings bonds, and bought one for me that grew to $10,000. She almost gave it to me to help with law school tuition, but she knew I wanted to buy a grand piano, so she kept that bond, for me. She died in 1993 and did not see me realize my dream. I believe I purchased my piano in 1999 or 2000. I will have to confirm that with my piano tuner. But I am a spiritual person, and I know she can see that I DID purchase that piano!!
My mom did see me buy this piano, though which was so incredible. My Dad had Alzheimer's by that time and didn't know me, but my mom was truly happy that I made the piano purchase, happen in her life time. When she came over to my house right after it was delivered, I could tell how truly happy she was for me. As a parent, you can always be happy when your child realizes a major dream.
So, what has owning a grand piano done for me? I think I play better because it is a better instrument. I also like the full sound the piano produces. It literally fills the room with beautiful sound. It also makes me feel like I am a real musician. I know I'm not, I'm just your crazy, piano playing fool, but when I sit down at that piano, I am transformed. I play with more feeling, and more attention to detail.
There will be many more blog posts about my piano. Suffice to say, I am a proud owner of the greatest of instruments. It may not be a Steinway, but it a beautiful sounding instrument that makes every day seem filled with peace and joy.
Sunday, February 15, 2015
Burt Bacharach
I was watching Glee the other evening. This season has not come up to the level of high quality of other seasons. That being said last week's episode zeroed in on the music of Burt Bacharach. Burt Bacharach was a pianist and composer. He was a real star of the sixties and seventies, but even now his music is timeless.
After hearing Lea Michele of Glee sing Promises, Promises, I took a moment to find my book of Burt Bacharach piano music. The book was in my piano music bookshelf, and looking at it is worn. It has pictures of Mr. Bacharach and Hal David his lyricist on the front cover.
Taking the book out, and opening it up brought back a lot of memories. Looking at the various songs, I noticed that none of the music was that challenging to play. In fact I often have believed that a great song, doesn't always have amazing accompaniment. The truly great song can stand on it's own quite simply with a single melody line. Think of songs like Always or Time after Time.
For instance, the waltz tempo of "What the World Needs Now" makes this song wonderful. The song can be played quite simply on the piano, and was originally performed with tuba accompaniment. I always think of this song as one I would begin or end with, if I was a piano player at Von Maur Department Store.
The Bacharach book of music also contained the 5th Dimension hit, One Less Bell to Answer. I can only imagine when playing it that Marilyn McCoo is belting it out, with her absolutely amazing voice.
The Carpenters' Close to You was also in the book, and I had forgotten it was written by Mr. Bacharach. There is also the beautiful ballad A Message to Michael. In naming my son Michael, I often think of that ballad.
Again, if you are a pianist amateur or professional, you should look through your music shelves, you might be able to bring a great memory to the forefront of your mind. You also might have an opportunity to work on your sight reading, even if it is only a half hour before you have to make dinner, or help your children with your home work.
Again, as with any great composer, it is a privilege to be able to play the music created by them.
I was watching Glee the other evening. This season has not come up to the level of high quality of other seasons. That being said last week's episode zeroed in on the music of Burt Bacharach. Burt Bacharach was a pianist and composer. He was a real star of the sixties and seventies, but even now his music is timeless.
After hearing Lea Michele of Glee sing Promises, Promises, I took a moment to find my book of Burt Bacharach piano music. The book was in my piano music bookshelf, and looking at it is worn. It has pictures of Mr. Bacharach and Hal David his lyricist on the front cover.
Taking the book out, and opening it up brought back a lot of memories. Looking at the various songs, I noticed that none of the music was that challenging to play. In fact I often have believed that a great song, doesn't always have amazing accompaniment. The truly great song can stand on it's own quite simply with a single melody line. Think of songs like Always or Time after Time.
For instance, the waltz tempo of "What the World Needs Now" makes this song wonderful. The song can be played quite simply on the piano, and was originally performed with tuba accompaniment. I always think of this song as one I would begin or end with, if I was a piano player at Von Maur Department Store.
The Bacharach book of music also contained the 5th Dimension hit, One Less Bell to Answer. I can only imagine when playing it that Marilyn McCoo is belting it out, with her absolutely amazing voice.
The Carpenters' Close to You was also in the book, and I had forgotten it was written by Mr. Bacharach. There is also the beautiful ballad A Message to Michael. In naming my son Michael, I often think of that ballad.
Again, if you are a pianist amateur or professional, you should look through your music shelves, you might be able to bring a great memory to the forefront of your mind. You also might have an opportunity to work on your sight reading, even if it is only a half hour before you have to make dinner, or help your children with your home work.
Again, as with any great composer, it is a privilege to be able to play the music created by them.
Tuesday, January 27, 2015
Duet playing
"Duet playing provides valuable experience developing a sense of rhythm." This sentence is in the Wesley Schaum's Tunes for Two Book Two, that I played when I was about 10 years old so, circa 1965. I was involved in the massive piano recital, sponsored by the Grinnell Brothers Music House, which consisted of about 100 pianos, with two children on each of them, playing two duet numbers.
Grinnell Brothers in Detroit, was one of the prime places to purchase a piano. The Grinnell Brother's Music House was located on the main thoroughfare of down town Detroit, Woodward Avenue. Started in 1908 the Grinnell Building was designed by Albert Kahn. The Grinnell Brothers started in the business of selling sewing machines and quickly moved to the sale of musical instruments including organs and pianos. In looking back, Grinnell pianos were available at a reasonable price, and probably the piano an average family would purchase if they couldn't afford a Steinway.
My grade school piano teacher Madonna Moffat decided that her students would participate in this grand duet "play-in" I remember going to rehearsals somewhere in downtown Detroit, along with my partner, who's name escapes me now. I think she may have been a Lisa. In reviewing the actual duet music for My Wild Irish Rose and You're A Grand Old Flag, I marvel at how simple they look now. However, at the time the thought or concept of the duet frightened me. As I have mentioned in prior posts, I am rhythmically challenged, and these duet pieces tested my ability to play with another person with correct rhythm.
I liken this experience to Charlie Brown trying to kick the football, held by Lucy, and my response being an aaaaargh!. Playing the piano is often a singular activity, so duets force you to collaborate with another pianist, and test your ability to give something of yourself to make beautiful music. That sounds noble doesn't it? It also tests your ability to be calm, take on a challenge and grow from meeting that challenge.
I look back at my Tunes for Two book now. The cover is gone. However my 10 year old writing is all over the inside page. I was seated at Piano #30 and I even drew a humorous picture of the Mr. Smith, the conductor who controlled the massive piano duet demonstration. I know my parents went and they made my two brothers attend the recital as well. I am sure my brothers were annoyed that they had to take time out of a busy Sunday to attend this event.
However, what I did learn from this musical moment was one important thing, number your measures in ensemble playing so you can refer back to a spot where you played something incorrectly. I also learned the meaning of rests in my part, in relationship to my partner's part. I also learned that when notes are above or below the staff, and you figure out what the notes are, you should write them in the score. And always, always write them in pencil
My only regret, is that I didn't get these duets out when my children Sarah and Michael were little. We could have made some incredible music together. There will be blogs about my children's musical journeys, but I leave that to a later moment.
And as only an adult can conclude, I eventually learned that the grand duet piano recital was actually a way for Grinnell Brothers Music House to sell their pianos after the large recital was over. At the time I didn't see it as a business proposition. I remember I had to wear a white dress, and my mother's friend made it for me. It was the first time I had a "Jacqueline Kennedy" sheath. It was very Parisienne with pearl buttons, and I had my gold clown pin on the lapel. I also remember how much time my mom gave to me, so I could do this recital. My mother was always big on promoting music throughout my life. Actually both my Mom and Dad placed a great priority on music, in all of its forms. That is a blog post for another day as well.
Duets can change the way you play for the better!!! You simply have to have the courage, to give part of your self to the music.
"Duet playing provides valuable experience developing a sense of rhythm." This sentence is in the Wesley Schaum's Tunes for Two Book Two, that I played when I was about 10 years old so, circa 1965. I was involved in the massive piano recital, sponsored by the Grinnell Brothers Music House, which consisted of about 100 pianos, with two children on each of them, playing two duet numbers.
Grinnell Brothers in Detroit, was one of the prime places to purchase a piano. The Grinnell Brother's Music House was located on the main thoroughfare of down town Detroit, Woodward Avenue. Started in 1908 the Grinnell Building was designed by Albert Kahn. The Grinnell Brothers started in the business of selling sewing machines and quickly moved to the sale of musical instruments including organs and pianos. In looking back, Grinnell pianos were available at a reasonable price, and probably the piano an average family would purchase if they couldn't afford a Steinway.
My grade school piano teacher Madonna Moffat decided that her students would participate in this grand duet "play-in" I remember going to rehearsals somewhere in downtown Detroit, along with my partner, who's name escapes me now. I think she may have been a Lisa. In reviewing the actual duet music for My Wild Irish Rose and You're A Grand Old Flag, I marvel at how simple they look now. However, at the time the thought or concept of the duet frightened me. As I have mentioned in prior posts, I am rhythmically challenged, and these duet pieces tested my ability to play with another person with correct rhythm.
I liken this experience to Charlie Brown trying to kick the football, held by Lucy, and my response being an aaaaargh!. Playing the piano is often a singular activity, so duets force you to collaborate with another pianist, and test your ability to give something of yourself to make beautiful music. That sounds noble doesn't it? It also tests your ability to be calm, take on a challenge and grow from meeting that challenge.
I look back at my Tunes for Two book now. The cover is gone. However my 10 year old writing is all over the inside page. I was seated at Piano #30 and I even drew a humorous picture of the Mr. Smith, the conductor who controlled the massive piano duet demonstration. I know my parents went and they made my two brothers attend the recital as well. I am sure my brothers were annoyed that they had to take time out of a busy Sunday to attend this event.
However, what I did learn from this musical moment was one important thing, number your measures in ensemble playing so you can refer back to a spot where you played something incorrectly. I also learned the meaning of rests in my part, in relationship to my partner's part. I also learned that when notes are above or below the staff, and you figure out what the notes are, you should write them in the score. And always, always write them in pencil
My only regret, is that I didn't get these duets out when my children Sarah and Michael were little. We could have made some incredible music together. There will be blogs about my children's musical journeys, but I leave that to a later moment.
And as only an adult can conclude, I eventually learned that the grand duet piano recital was actually a way for Grinnell Brothers Music House to sell their pianos after the large recital was over. At the time I didn't see it as a business proposition. I remember I had to wear a white dress, and my mother's friend made it for me. It was the first time I had a "Jacqueline Kennedy" sheath. It was very Parisienne with pearl buttons, and I had my gold clown pin on the lapel. I also remember how much time my mom gave to me, so I could do this recital. My mother was always big on promoting music throughout my life. Actually both my Mom and Dad placed a great priority on music, in all of its forms. That is a blog post for another day as well.
Duets can change the way you play for the better!!! You simply have to have the courage, to give part of your self to the music.
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Today is Mozart's birthday! This in itself is a reason to rejoice. Whenever one thinks about classical music, Mozart's genius should come to mind. I also look at the challenge Mozart's compositions present to any pianist. I remember learning Sonate 16 in C major during my high school years. If you look it up and play the first few measures the tune is very familiar. I had heard a recording of it, and I know I badgered my high school teacher Katherine Lemon, to let me study it.
That is part of the issue with Mozart. One hears a beautiful melody, and in the pianist's mind he or she will say to his or herself, that it cannot possibly be that hard. However, once you get to the true musical score, you realize you are DEAD WRONG!!
Hence, my journey with No. 17 Sonate in B flat major. I remember when my then piano teacher, Dr. Suzanne Newcomb decided it was one I could study, looking at the music it did not seem too challenging. Wrong first impression. It was very challenging, from the rhythm, to the dynamics, to the musicianship needed to pull the work off.
Yet in studying number 17, I learned about the movements, the Exposition, the development, and the recapitulation. I learned in a much different way, that it just cannot be about getting the notes right, it must be about developing the melody and creating something magical for your audience.
I spent an inordinate amount of time on this Sonata, which I think helped me rhythmically. I am rhythmically challenged and I need a metronome most of the time. Or alternatively, I must figure out a meter, and then count out loud to reach perfection.
I also failed to mention the Sonate Number 5 in G major. I think I played this in high school, and it is another sonata, I simply love. Because it is in G, there is only an F sharp to worry about, so I think it lends itself quite well to being a great Mozart composition to begin to study. I also add that you have to watch your rhythm, because once you develop a level of competency with it, you feel the urge to rush the entire first movement. It is a glorious work of 120 measures, and if you are studying it, I like to think of it as a Sonata that can "wow" the crowd.
I wish as a young pianist, I had worked through my rhythm issues, instead of jumping into a piece and playing notes the way I thought they should sound. You just cannot do that with the great musicians. They wrote it in a style and rhythm, and there thoughts and plans should not be distorted by the average piano playing fool. These foregoing thoughts are particularly true of Mozart's sonatas
Beyond my thoughts about rhythm, in regard to Mozart, I still feel it is a privilege to attempt to play any of his music. There is a such a lively aspect to his sonatas, and just imagining how and when he composed these works, makes me think that I should look at any attempt to play them with a great deal of gratitude.
When ever I put a CD in my player of Mozart music, I often thing, the melodies sound so clear, direct and something I can hum. However, when I actually pull out the music and look at the composition, I then see, and understand the intricacies of what he was composing.
In a dreary mid west winter, knowing that Mozart's birthday takes place on January 27th can make all the difference when you are trudging through the snow, and the wind is blowing your scarf over your face Mozart brings to mind, a simple freedom, that you only find when listening to quality music. His compositions can make a gray day beautiful, even if the sun isn't shining.
Just looking at my two Klaviersonaten books of Mozart renews my faith in life, love and this wonderful world!!!
Today is Mozart's birthday! This in itself is a reason to rejoice. Whenever one thinks about classical music, Mozart's genius should come to mind. I also look at the challenge Mozart's compositions present to any pianist. I remember learning Sonate 16 in C major during my high school years. If you look it up and play the first few measures the tune is very familiar. I had heard a recording of it, and I know I badgered my high school teacher Katherine Lemon, to let me study it.
That is part of the issue with Mozart. One hears a beautiful melody, and in the pianist's mind he or she will say to his or herself, that it cannot possibly be that hard. However, once you get to the true musical score, you realize you are DEAD WRONG!!
Hence, my journey with No. 17 Sonate in B flat major. I remember when my then piano teacher, Dr. Suzanne Newcomb decided it was one I could study, looking at the music it did not seem too challenging. Wrong first impression. It was very challenging, from the rhythm, to the dynamics, to the musicianship needed to pull the work off.
Yet in studying number 17, I learned about the movements, the Exposition, the development, and the recapitulation. I learned in a much different way, that it just cannot be about getting the notes right, it must be about developing the melody and creating something magical for your audience.
I spent an inordinate amount of time on this Sonata, which I think helped me rhythmically. I am rhythmically challenged and I need a metronome most of the time. Or alternatively, I must figure out a meter, and then count out loud to reach perfection.
I also failed to mention the Sonate Number 5 in G major. I think I played this in high school, and it is another sonata, I simply love. Because it is in G, there is only an F sharp to worry about, so I think it lends itself quite well to being a great Mozart composition to begin to study. I also add that you have to watch your rhythm, because once you develop a level of competency with it, you feel the urge to rush the entire first movement. It is a glorious work of 120 measures, and if you are studying it, I like to think of it as a Sonata that can "wow" the crowd.
I wish as a young pianist, I had worked through my rhythm issues, instead of jumping into a piece and playing notes the way I thought they should sound. You just cannot do that with the great musicians. They wrote it in a style and rhythm, and there thoughts and plans should not be distorted by the average piano playing fool. These foregoing thoughts are particularly true of Mozart's sonatas
Beyond my thoughts about rhythm, in regard to Mozart, I still feel it is a privilege to attempt to play any of his music. There is a such a lively aspect to his sonatas, and just imagining how and when he composed these works, makes me think that I should look at any attempt to play them with a great deal of gratitude.
When ever I put a CD in my player of Mozart music, I often thing, the melodies sound so clear, direct and something I can hum. However, when I actually pull out the music and look at the composition, I then see, and understand the intricacies of what he was composing.
In a dreary mid west winter, knowing that Mozart's birthday takes place on January 27th can make all the difference when you are trudging through the snow, and the wind is blowing your scarf over your face Mozart brings to mind, a simple freedom, that you only find when listening to quality music. His compositions can make a gray day beautiful, even if the sun isn't shining.
Just looking at my two Klaviersonaten books of Mozart renews my faith in life, love and this wonderful world!!!
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