Does the performer matter?
A piece of music is like a relationship. It starts with so much excitement, and can so easily flat-line after some time. New notes are very attractive. It is intoxicating to get to know a new work. The sounds linger hours after the last note of the day is played. It's like meeting a new person, like falling in love, it's so exciting
Studio Recording vs. Live Performance
Listening to my own studio recording is difficult for me. As I am preparing to release my next solo CD, I am in the middle of it all again
Liner Notes or Not?
The term liner note originated during the era of the 78 discs named for its 78 revolutions per minute. Those were fragile and often only contained one song per side
Hearing Yourself on the Radio
Why is it so hard to listen to yourself play? The ongoing evaluation of one's own performance is overpowering
Why I am a pianist
Connecting to the audience is vital to a memorable performance. And a memorable performance is one way to eternalize music
8 (small) things to survive your long haul flight
I have been lucky enough to get upgraded quite a bit, but I more often travel in economy class. For those long distance flights on the cheap, my secret weapon is my personal replica of the little fun pouch offered as a gift to business class travelers on long haul flights.
The romance and excitement of aviation...
Jet way versus air stair? Most major airports use jet ways, but as frequent traveler I do come across the air stair on occasion.
How and why to choose repertoire well
The process of selecting repertoire is complex be it for myself or for others.
