After I play through a program or a piece for someone (as a step in preparing for public performance), I don't return to the piano to practice. It can be difficult, if something went badly and I want to work on it. But the separation -- practicing for the real concert by preserving the "non-take-twoness" of the performing experience -- matters most. I've read of Busoni returning to the hall to play through an entire concert after the audience … [Read more...]
Concert Accident
New York The Stone, last summer After the performance, I notice one of the screws that holds my glasses together is missing. Glasses still hanging together. During the hour-long set, somehow, tiny screw worked loose, jumped, disappeared. Metropolitan Museum Leaving to go across town, I lock myself out of apartment. No time. Must proceed to Grace Rainey Rogers and play recital. Miller Theatre Coming home after playing, I leave my … [Read more...]