Monthly Archives: August 2013

There’s a picture around the house of Van Cliburn and me at Interlochen, 50 years and a few weeks ago,

You know why I hate bad concert halls? For the same reason I hate bad performances: They lie about music’s beauty.

As a pianist, I have a recurring nightmare that the piano will disappear

Students and I started “pianomailing” in 2005, and find it a big plus. When they get home from a lesson, they email me saying what we covered, what they’re working on for next time–and how they’re working; and whatever else they think important. I respond a.s.a.p., often just saying “Right!” or “Yes”; but sometimes it […]

Playing with others, have you had trouble starting together? You tilt your head up, preparing to give the signal by tilting it down. The clarinet bell goes up, and the clarinetist takes a breath. The viola neck goes up and the bow moves into position.