Matters of interpretation came up at the "Y" Gym yesterday when I bumped into the pianist from a North Berkeley house of worship. Aline is a fine musician who intersperses the service with great masterworks. Recently she played Grieg's "Wedding March" during the basket-passing which lifted spirits as it amassed $$$$. At that very instant,… Continue reading Interpreting piano music: Should we truly realize the composer’s intent?
Tag: Bela Bartok
A Love story born of flowers and set to the music of Bela Bartok
It was my birthday a few days ago, and I was blessed with the gift of flowers and a plant from two close friends. These sit side-by-side atop my upright piano: Little did I know that "Roy" who delivered the tulips to my doorstep had quite a story to share about how he met his… Continue reading A Love story born of flowers and set to the music of Bela Bartok
Colorful miniatures that grow piano technique and musicianship
Most piano students know first hand about Burgmuller and his Progressive character pieces in the Romantic genre. They are a bundle of delights with picturesque titles that match the music. But few might realize that Bela Bartok's collection of miniatures is an easy rival, having glowing melodies and dance-like folkloric rhythms. Still, both composers from… Continue reading Colorful miniatures that grow piano technique and musicianship
The Old World playing, like fine wine, of Livia Rev, Hungarian pianist and teacher (see her teaching segments on the pliant wrist)
So now I am into documentaries about piano teachers/performers who leave an eternal imprint on their students and upon the world. Livia Rev is one such special person who belongs in the good company of Irena Orlov, Irina Gorin, and Rosina Lhevinne. Note the frames on Bela Bartok, and Ms. Lev's connection to-- a letter… Continue reading The Old World playing, like fine wine, of Livia Rev, Hungarian pianist and teacher (see her teaching segments on the pliant wrist)
