Founded in 1964 Volume 30, Number 1

AN OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE AMERICAN LISZT SOCIETY, INC. An official publication of the American Liszt Society, Inc.

Second Fiftieth Anniversary Commemorative Issue Daniel Barenboim Receives Medal of TABLE OF CONTENTS the American Liszt Society As part of the opening ceremonies at the fiftieth anniversary festival of the American Liszt Society, ALS President Thomas Mastroianni presented Maestro Daniel Barenboim 1 Daniel Barenboim Receives Medal with the Medal of the American Liszt Society. The citation read: of the American Liszt Society "Daniel Barenboim is one of the leading musicians of our time. One must never 2 President's Message: use such language lightly, lest one devalue it. In the case of Maestro Barenboim, The Next Fifty Years however, it is no more than the simple truth. Pianist, conductor, teacher, and author, 3 Letter from the Editor: Seven Pioneers his multi-faceted career places him in a similar category to that of Franz Liszt, whose music he has done so much to promote over a rich lifetime of music-making – over 4 A Conversation with Alan Walker half a century in fact. 6 Alan Walker Book Award Winners "Maestro Barenboim understands that celebrity is pointless unless it is put to good use. His West–Eastern Divan Orchestra, comprised mainly of Israeli and Arab Liszt's Dance with the Devil a "Hit" musicians, was created in 1999 in cooperation with his colleague, Palestinian-born 7 A Conversation with Kris Becker scholar and author Edward Said, for the purpose of showing that it is possible for 10 A Conversation with Judith Neslény people from this war-torn region to learn to understand and respect one another’s point of view. The orchestra is based in Seville, Spain, near enough both to Israel and 12 Member News Palestine to bring concerts to their respective peoples. Daniel Barenboim held the first 13 In Memoriam: Howard Karp rehearsals in Weimar, which is not only the city of Goethe (whose collection of poems The West-Eastern Divan gave the orchestra its name), but is also the spiritual home of 2015 ALS Festival in Denton, Texas Franz Liszt and a world center for Liszt scholarship. 14 Chapter News "Maestro Barenboim’s efforts to use music for the improvement of society place 15 Corrected LA Liszt Competition Dates him in a direct line of descent from Franz Liszt, whose watchword 'Génie oblige!' ('Genius carries obligations!') was based on the ethical idea that being gifted by Liszt-Garrison Announcement Providence with musical talent imposed on one a special duty to give something LA Group Honors Liszt Museum back. This idea of giving something back surely finds its modern equivalent in the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra, as we witness these young musicians placing their Gabriel Dobner, Newest ALS talents in the service of something higher than self-interest. Maestro Barenboim may Board Member - and a Thank You! not recall Alfred Cortot’s beautiful aphorism, “Music forces Mankind to confront its ALS Invited to be a Partner with the Nobility,” but it is a phrase that readily springs to mind as we observe his work with this Franz Liszt Academy in Budapest orchestra. 16 Picture Page "Daniel Barenboim’s Liszt recitals are legendary and have attracted much attention. We think especially of the evenings he has devoted to Liszt’s operatic paraphrases in such venues as the Royal Opera House (London) and La Scala Opera House (Milan), perfect venues for such repertoire, as Liszt himself realized when he became the first pianist to give a solo recital at La Scala as far back as 1837. As an interpreter of Liszt’s music Barenboim has few peers. His persuasive interpretations are notable for their sheer musicality, a refreshing change in an age which so often sees in Liszt little more than a flamboyant virtuoso offering opportunities for physical display. It only remains to add that both in his radio and his television interviews Barenboim continues to argue eloquently for a proper recognition of Liszt’s unique place in musical history. "It is a distinct privilege and a high honor to present Daniel Barenboim with the Medal of the American Liszt Society in the year 2014 – a year that also happens to mark the fiftieth anniversary of the founding of the Society." Perpetuating the ideas of Franz Liszt through excellence in music (Editor's note: please visit the ALS website [www.americanlisztsociety.net] to view Maestro performance and scholarship Barenboim's recorded response to the presentation.) PRESIDENT Thomas Mastroianni* President's Message: The Catholic University of America School of Music The Next Fifty Years Washington, D.C. 20064 [email protected] Dear Fellow Lisztians: PRESIDENT EMERITUS Fernando Laires Fifty years of dedicated service to the philosophy and aesthetic message VICE PRESIDENT of Franz Liszt constitutes an important part of an American legacy in Jay Hershberger* which the American Liszt Society can rightfully take pride. Members Concordia College Music of ALS bring to music lovers around the world an enthusiasm and love Department Moorhead, MN 56562 of the music and ideas of Liszt that the listening public of the preceding [email protected] century did not fully appreciate. Our purpose, however, is not to take pride, but to intensify our service. We must ask the question: "What will the next 50 EXECUTIVE SECRETARY years hold?" And then ask a follow-up question: "How can the spirit of Liszt further Justin Kolb* contribute to our spiritual and cultural well-being?" 1136 Hog Mountain Road Fleischmanns, NY 12430 Liszt was a philosopher, a scholar, a poet, a musical innovator, and one of us who [email protected] suffered and sought redemption through his art. Are we the select few? Can we, with him, understand, imagine, feel, agonize, and rise to spiritual heights through his MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY music? Perhaps many of his devoted disciples can do so. But we need not preach Barbara Mellon Kolb* 1136 Hog Mountain Road to the converted. May I suggest that our next decades might be well spent in grass- Fleischmanns, NY 12430 roots activities to make these benefits available to a wider circle of souls eager to share [email protected] them. On some level, all humans seek Truth. Using the words of Lamartine, Liszt, in the Preface to Harmonies Poétiques et religieuses, exclaims: “Would that I could with these TREASURER thoughts of mine, come to the aid of these seekers of Truth.” Who are these “seekers Cynthia Hershberger* 29282 Co. Rd. 157 of Truth”? Chapters of the ALS are in the best position to identify them and to create Hitterdal, MN 56552-9433 specifically for them the harmonies that express the spirit of Liszt. [email protected] Let us find ways to encourage diverse chapter membership among performers, scholars, poets, philosophers, and sensitive listeners who can bring Liszt into everyday aesthetic ALS JOURNAL Jonathan Kregor, Editor experience. No formula designed by a central national committee can embrace the needs Mary Emery Hall Room 4240 of diverse gatherings of chapter members. Rather, let us consider how best to provide Cincinnati College-Conservatory incentives for the formation, motivation, and activation of these groups - and their unique PO Box 210003 projects. Cincinnati OH 45221-0003 For example, one chapter may find value in sponsoring periodic competitive events that [email protected] would support young performers and require them to become familiar with some aspect ALS NEWSLETTER/WEBSITE of Liszt. The national American Liszt Society could reserve a significant percentage Edward Rath, Editor/Webmaster of the dues from members of such a chapter to award a grant to facilitate this activity. 2603 Copper Tree Road Another chapter may wish to encourage and support transcription of some of Liszt’s Champaign, IL 61822-7518 [email protected] works for ensembles or choral groups to widen accessibility of Liszt’s music. A chapter in an area blessed with prestigious universities might wish to create a periodic prize to BOARD OF DIRECTORS support publication of a “Best Dissertation of the Year (or Years)” devoted to the music Joseph Banowetz of Liszt. Another chapter may seek a grant to encourage performances of unfamiliar Paul Barnes works of Liszt. Luiz de Moura Castro Gabriel Dobner We must provide incentive, guidance, and support. The incentive to create projects for Alexandre Dossin local members would greatly expand our membership base and reach more deeply into the Gila Goldstein grass roots. One chapter of 30 members in each state would triple our membership. Cindy Hershberger* To facilitate such concepts, the American Liszt Society Board of Directors, meeting Jay Hershberger* Geraldine Keeling immediately prior to the festival at James Madison University, voted to revise the ALS Jonathan Kregor Bylaws. You may read the revised Bylaws by clicking appropriately in the left-hand Barbara Mellon Kolb* navigation bar on the ALS website. Your feedback is welcome. Justin Kolb* Elyse J. Mach Thomas Mastroianni* Cordially, Ksenia Nosikova Edward Rath Thomas Mastroianni Nancy Roldán Steven Spooner President, American Liszt Society Helen Smith Tarchalski 1420 Chilton Dr. Alan Walker Silver Spring, MD 20904 William Wellborn Richard Zimdars [email protected] (Editor's note: the original version of this article appeared as a handout to members *Member, Executive Committee of the ALS Board of Directors and also to enrollees in the 2014 ALS festival in Harrisonburg, Virginia.) www.americanlisztsociety.net

2 The American Liszt Society - www.americanlisztsociety.net Letter from the Editor: Seven Pioneers

Fellow Lisztians! I want to add my thanks to Gabriel Dobner, Lori Piitz, Eric Ruple, and Paulo Steinberg, plus the administration and support staff at James Madison University, for putting together and carrying out one of the best ALS festivals I can remember. Great facilities, great music, great cameraderie - just wonderful. Those of you who were not able to be with us for the events in Harrisonburg will be interested to know that there were seven individuals - pioneers, if you will - who were recognized for their outstanding contributions to ALS and to the profession in general. I've chosen to include all of the citations honoring these colleagues so that everyone can rejoice with them.

FERNANDO LAIRES Fernando Laires, a founder and long-time President of the American Liszt Society, is well known and dear to the hearts of all American Liszt Society members. Fernando’s vision and tireless dedication toward promoting the music of Liszt qualifies him as a leading agent for increasing acceptance and understanding of Liszt in our profession and our generation. Fernando brought passion to his promotion of Liszt through the ALS and offered many thoughtful, fiery interpretations that led us to adore Liszt in the face of the public indifference that often greeted performances of his music. Laires has been a true life-long missionary on behalf of Liszt. It is safe to say that the American Liszt Society would not exist but for his dedication and passionate work.

DAVID KUSHNER David Kushner is one of the founding fathers of the American Liszt Society. He served as Chairman of the Board of ALS (before the office of president was established) and provided leadership for the Society in the early years of its growth. A noted musicologist, Kushner brought insight and musical understanding to the aims of the Society and contributed to the efforts to establish legitimacy for the works of Liszt and his place in music history. Kushner has served with distinction on the musicology faculty of the University of Florida at Gainesville for several decades. His service to the American Liszt Society over its fifty-year history is inestimable and manifold.

FRANK COOPER Frank Cooper, known and admired for his ability to communicate to his listeners the pleasures of any subject in the arts, is Research Professor Emeritus of Musicology at the University of Miami. He has served the American Liszt Society as president and as board member. He brought the message of Liszt to a wide audience and has been a champion of Liszt and Romantic music in general through his many public presentations at festival The American Liszt Society programs, and through a variety of research topics and stimulating lectures. Frank Cooper PRESIDENT received the Liszt Centennial Medal from the Hungarian Ministry of Culture for his tireless Thomas Mastroianni advocacy on behalf of Liszt. [email protected]

NEWSLETTER EDITOR REGINALD GERIG Edward Rath Reginald Gerig is best known for his influential book, Famous Pianists and Their Technique. He 2603 Copper Tree Road holds B.S. and M.S. degrees from The Juilliard School, having studied with Carl Friedberg Champaign, IL 61822-7518 and Joseph Raieff. He taught at the Wheaton College Conservatory from 1952 to 1987. tel: (217) 377-3441 [email protected] Gerig served seven years as ALS Membership Secretary and Treasurer. He was for many years a frequent attendee at ALS meetings, where his kindness and even temper are well remembered and cherished. Submit change of address information to: MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY Barbara Mellon Kolb MAURICE HINSON 1136 Hog Mountain Road Maurice Hinson is one of America’s most respected authorities on piano literature. He Fleischmanns, NY 12430 has performed, lectured, and given master classes worldwide. His books and editions have [email protected] become classic standards. Hinson was founder and long-time editor of the Journal of the

Layout: Lawrence Keach and Edward Rath American Liszt Society, a publication that is found in music libraries around the world and has Printed by Insty-Prints of Champaign, IL made a positive impact on Liszt scholarship. He was awarded the Franz Liszt Medal by the This newsletter is published twice annually, with a Hungarian Government in 1986. (continued on page 13) circulation of approximately 660 per issue. An official publication of the The American Liszt Society, Inc. ©2014 ALS, all rights reserved.

Volume 30, Number 1 3 A Conversation Alan Walker

Editor’s Note: I first met Alan Walker That was soon to change, however. it was better than cleaning a tank or in the late 1990s when he presented at There was a very fine music teacher at polishing a rifle, the usual alternatives for the University of Illinois some lectures my school named John Brockelsby. He eighteen-year-old conscripts. on Liszt and other composers of piano was a Quaker and a pacifist, and I deeply After I was demobilized, I resumed music in the nineteenth century. I was admired him. He was also an excellent my musical studies and enrolled at the immediately taken with his knowledge, organist and, when he learned of my Guildhall School of Music in London, manner of presentation, and graciousness interest in music, he used to take me where I gained a couple of diplomas in as a person. Since 2004, when he over to his church and let me listen to piano playing, and also a B. Mus. degree delivered an impressive address at that him practice. I still have the sound of from Durham University. (Later on I year’s ALS festival at Illinois, I have had his Bach fugues in my ears, with those took a doctorate at that same university.) the privilege of serving with him on the glorious pedal-points! I immediately I was already older by three or four years ALS Board of Directors, where he is a wanted to become an organist, but he than most of the other students, which I source of wisdom and inspiration. His persuaded me to study the piano instead. now realize gave me a special advantage lectures and responses to questions at Since then, I have not touched the violin! over them. I had already started to write yearly ALS festivals are always interesting various articles for music periodicals, and informative, compelling the listener ER: Was there an event that captured and it was probably seeing my name in to think about Liszt in new and exciting your interest in music, or someone in print that captured the attention of the ways. The Hungarian government particular that sparked that interest? Principal of the GSM, who offered me has given Dr. Walker two honors in a position on the faculty as a professor acknowledgement of his Liszt biography: AW: I cannot recall anything of particular of Harmony and Counterpoint. I was The Knight’s Cross of the Order of significance. I know only that from 28 years old and could hardly believe my Merit of the Republic of Hungary, and the age of 12 the piano became central good fortune. the Pro Cultura Hungarica medal. to my musical life. Most of my leisure I had already begun to study privately time was spent at the keyboard learning with Hans Keller, who became a great Edward Rath: Could you tell us about the standard repertory - Bach, Mozart, influence in my life. I have written where you were born and something Beethoven, Brahms, and Chopin, but elsewhere about Keller and how much our about your pre-college education? hardly anything by Liszt. I had always lessons (and later his friendship) meant wanted to play his popular second to me. I used to go over to his house in Alan Walker: I was born in the small Hungarian Rhapsody and his third Hampstead every week where we analysed industrial town of Scunthorpe, in North Liebestraum, but I found the cadenzas so the scores of Mozart, Beethoven, and Lincolnshire, England. That is where I infuriatingly difficult that I gave up and Tchaikovsky among others. It was Keller grew up and went to school. My early went back to the Mozart sonatas. Still, by who introduced me to the string quartets education was erratic because during the time I was 17 years old I was already of Haydn. What sovereign masterpieces World War II the lessons were constantly teaching the piano in a local music school, they contain! Keller had been a violinist interrupted by German bombers, where I had upwards of 20 young pupils in a string quartet in his native Vienna searching for the local steel works three and was making a modest living in a and had an insider’s knowledge of these or four miles away. My school was shut profession that I loved and knew I would works. Our lessons would sometimes last down for a time and like other boys of never leave. for three hours or more. Keller had just my age I had to study at home. For me developed a wordless method of music that was a blessing because I became a ER: How did music shape your analysis, which he called “Functional voracious reader - history, biography, university educational pursuits? Analysis.” Words cannot tell you anything novels - anything that I could lay my about music that music itself does not hands on. When school life returned to AW: Because of the generation into tell you with far greater clarity. So Keller normal I was always top of the class in which I was born, I had to do two years by-passed words and began composing English and music. Having said that, I of compulsory National Service in the “music about music” - music that serves must also admit that I generally found British Army, which introduced some as a commentary on the composition myself near the bottom of the class in chaos into my life, and put all thoughts of under review. Very simply put, these such subjects as mathematics and science higher education on hold. They sent me scores bear the same connection to the - topics in which I have always been to Germany but because of my musical works they are “about” as a development abysmally bad. background I was recruited into the band section bears to the themes in a sonata’s of the Fifth Royal Inniskilling Dragoon exposition. The one is in constant ER: When were you first aware of Guards, based in Paderborn. We gave contact with the other, bringing hidden your serious interest in music? many concerts for German audiences connections to light without the aid of in the British Zone of Occupation, words. Arnold Schoenberg’s aphorism, AW: I suppose that I was about eight and I sometimes played such “pop” “The ear is the musician’s sole brain,” years old, and was already singing in items as Chopin’s Fantaisie-Impromptu, takes us to the heart of the matter. children’s choirs, both at school and at my Rachmaninov’s Prelude in C-sharp minor, Altogether Keller wrote about 20 of these church. I was also taking violin lessons, and a showy arrangement of Manuel de “Functional Analysis” scores and they but had not yet discovered the piano. Falla’s “Ritual Fire Dance.” In retrospect, (continued on next page)

4 The American Liszt Society - www.americanlisztsociety.net Alan Walker (continued from previous page) continue to fascinate me. My first book, whom one never meets any more. Tall, AW: When I began work on my Life of A Study in Musical Analysis, is dedicated to distinguished looking, and with one Liszt, I had no idea that it would take me Keller and reflects the kind of work we of those clipped upper class English 25 years to complete, otherwise I might were doing. accents that could cut through glass, he never have begun it. I made a rule for When Keller was appointed to the had written a popular biography of Liszt myself: namely, not to make any major British Broadcasting Corporation, he that had done yeoman service for many assertion about Liszt that could not be brought me in after him. My job there years. Sachie was not a musician, but he supported by documents. That meant was twofold: to write scripts for the had a profound love of music that would I had to travel. My journeys eventually announcers to be read on national radio, have put many a professional musician to took me to archives in Budapest, and to engage artists for broadcasting shame. I still have the script of his talk, Weimar, Rome, Paris, Vienna, London, and help them plan their programs. written in the most marvelous copper- Washington (where there is a very large The first part of the job taught me the plate handwriting, which he allowed me Liszt collection), and many smaller places essential difference between the spoken to keep. Shortly after my Liszt project too numerous to mention. I could not and the written word, and helped to was finished, I realized that I had created have undertaken such a marathon task sharpen my communication skills. The a problem for myself that I was unable to had I remained at the BBC, so I was second part of the job brought me into solve. The task of writing the program fortunate to be offered an academic contact with some of the world’s leading notes fell by default to me. But where position in Canada at the very moment players. Among the pianists I produced to turn? There were at that time hardly that I was deciding what to do. The at the BBC were Louis Kentner, John any books in English to help me write position offered me time for research Ogdon, Shura Cherkassky, Julius Isserlis, about such esoteric works as the Third and a sabbatical leave every seventh year. Vlado Perlemuter, Géza Anda, Arthur Mephisto Waltz and Unstern. It is possible Altogether I enjoyed three of them, and I Rubinstein, and Martha Argerich. I even that these two pieces were receiving their spent them all in Europe, writing. On one produced Wilhelm Backhaus (that name first broadcasts in England as part of my of my first trips to Budapest, one of their immediately dates me) who was said to Liszt series. You must remember that this scholars told me: “Remember, it takes a have been Adolf Hitler’s favorite pianist. was more than 50 years ago, and much life to study a life.” It was a perspicacious Backhaus's Beethoven was superb. To has changed since then. It was a defining comment. But so it proved. work with artists of this caliber gave moment. I knew that I would have to You ask me about the overall structure me a special insight into piano playing. write a biography of Liszt myself. of the biography and my methods of They spoiled most other pianists for me. work. I always plan the outline of my Within a few short months I had become As to what I earlier called “the more complex answer” to your question, books before doing any serious writing. acutely aware of the truth of Voltaire’s For me strategy trumps tactics. I first put aphorism, “The perfect is the enemy of Liszt’s personality had fascinated me down all the chapter headings, underneath the good.” To have the good knocked ever since my adolescence, and, even which I may write some cryptic sentences out of one by the perfect is a chastening though I had played little of his music, for later development. There is a famous experience. It was like being at the the thought of writing a book about him line in Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in world’s best conservatory. All I had to do was somehow like coming home. From Wonderland, where the King advises the (or so it seemed to me at the time) was to about the age of 12 I used to spend my White Rabbit: “Begin at the beginning sit there while this wonderful cavalcade pocket-money on those popular Lives of and go on until you come to the end; then of artists passed through the BBC’s the Great Composers published by Novello stop.” That is terrible advice, although portals and played for me. & Co. I acquired about 20 of them, but many writers adopt it. In my own case, it was the life of Liszt that captured my I sometimes start at the end. I had ER: When did Liszt enter your imagination and must have planted a seed already written one of the final chapters musical life? in my mind. It lay dormant for years (as concerning the death of Liszt before such things often do) until it was brought I had even finished writing about his AW: The simple answer to your question back to life through the sheer necessity of adolescence. When I am asked to offer is, “while I was at the BBC,” although having to do something about my BBC advice of my own, I invariably reply, there is a more complex answer to which series. There is a beautiful line by one of “Follow the path of least resistance.” I will return. I conceived the idea of a my favorite poets, William Wordsworth, comprehensive series of recitals devoted that I often think about when trying to ER: In addition to your prolific to Liszt’s piano music and I engaged explain how such turning points come writings and extensive presentations some of the best pianists to play it. about in later life: “The child is father to in many parts of the world, you also Liszt was far from popular in England the man." directed the Great Romantics Festival. at that time, so the effort could well be What was this event? described as pioneering. When all 15 or ER: What led you to undertake so recitals had been recorded, I brought what is one of the most thoroughly AW: Altogether I directed 14 Great in Sir Sacheverell Sitwell to record researched biographies on any Romantics Festivals in the City of an introductory talk. “Sachie,” as he composer, and how did you develop a Hamilton between the years 1993 and sometimes allowed his friends to call him, plan for the overall structure? 2010. They began in an unlikely way. The was one of those old-time personalities American Liszt Society wanted to put on (continued on next page)

Volume 30, Number 1 5 Alan Walker 2014 Alan Walker (continued from previous page) Book Award - Two First-Prize Winners! a festival in Canada, a country they had music continues to shine through. But not visited for more than 20 years, and not with Liszt. I think that I can illustrate Pendragon Press's Correspondence of Franz Fernando Laires asked me to direct it. I what I mean. How often have we left a Liszt and the Comtesse Marie d'Agoult, announced the theme of the festival as Chopin recital that has gone badly, and translated by Michael Short, and the “The Great Romantics” and the name we say, “What a poor player!” And how University of Rochester Press's Liszt's stuck. The Society liked the various often have we left a Liszt recital that has Transcultural Modernism and the Hungarian- venues offered by Hamilton, and they gone badly, and we say, “What a poor Gypsy Tradition, by Shay Loya, are the co- came back for two more festivals before composer!” The sins of the player are winners of the 2014 Alan Walker Book returning to their normal routine in the visited on Liszt the composer in a way Award, an award funded by the American States. That left me with an infrastructure that makes him almost unique. I believe Liszt Society. Each author has received an I did not want to dismantle. We had a that I finished my criticism of today’s award of $1000. lot of support from McMaster University typical Liszt players with the peroration: The Alan Walker Book Award, first and from the politicians at City Hall, so I “If Liszt is to have a future, we need presented in the Liszt bicentennial year of continued to run the festival for the next pianists with more brain and less brawn.” 2011, is a triennial competition open to decade or so. We have a large Hungarian What amazed me is that I got a standing submission of a new book in English, a diaspora here, and that helped me to ovation from the pianists in my audience! translation into English, or a substantially persuade City Hall to name one of our revised edition of a book in English that contributes to Liszt scholarship. Topics main thoroughfares after Liszt. The ER: And Liszt in the future? Do you Hungarian ambassador to Canada came include the life and music of Franz Liszt, have any plans with regard to your the life and music of a pupil of Liszt, and down from Ottawa to unveil it. “Franz own further research or writing, and Liszt Avenue” runs right past our main other Liszt-related research. what do you hope for on the part of The 2013/14 jury was composed auditorium and always attracts attention. others? I would like to revive the Festival, but my of ALS members Ben Arnold and Jay international travels keep getting in the AW: I continue to write every day and I Rosenblatt. way - and one cannot do everything. For further information concerning continue to work in foreign archives. On the 2017 competition, please contact my desk at the moment is a very large ER: At the Liszt bicentennial Award Founder and Coordinator Richard typescript that will probably weigh in at Zimdars at [email protected]. celebration at the ALS festival in about 800 pages if it is ever completed. Athens, Georgia, your fascinating Because I have become a bit superstitious presentation on how Liszt has about my work, I prefer not to mention evolved in the minds and practices of the topic until I am in sight of the "Liszt'sLiszt's Dance Dance with with musicians since the 1911 centennial finishing-line. also included commentary on the As for my younger colleagues who thethe DevilDevil" a a"Hit" "Hit" at at current state of piano playing. have moved into the field of Liszt 2014 Festival Perhaps you could reprise some of the scholarship, I welcome their work and 2014 Festival remarks on the latter subject. continue to learn from it. You ask what Ophra Yerushalmi's film, Liszt's Dance I hope from them. Quite simply that with the Devil, was one of the high points AW: Yes, I delivered those controversial they pay attention to their writing. Their remarks at Athens, and I recall them of the 2014 festival. Ophra herself scholarship is generally faultless, but that was not sure how the film would be very well. What I said was that Liszt’s is of little avail if it does not attract a music is placed in constant jeopardy by received - she said she approached the readership. There is no reason why the event "with fear and trembling" - but the very pianists who like to specialize most detailed analysis of (say) Liszt’s in it. Performers are not always among the overwhelming response showed the B-Minor Sonata should not be a pleasure audience's appreciation for the work's Liszt’s best friends. Indeed, some of to read, but it frequently isn’t, and I often them are among his worst enemies, and content and production. get a headache looking at all those graphs Perhaps Luiz de Moura Castro there is a reason for this. Because Liszt’s and spreadsheets. music nearly always contains a technical summed it up best in a text message to challenge, it tends to attract players of Ophra: "It was with great happiness ER: In what must be rare moments and fascination that I saw and listened to the wrong type: those who feel that their of relaxation and time for yourself, work is accomplished only if they play [your] film. For the first time one could Liszt fast and loud. Where have all the what other interests do you pursue, see the subject treated with knowledge, Swiss watchmakers gone? Where are all such as pastimes or hobbies? intuition, taste, artistry, and humor. the pianists who know how to bring out Somehow it captured through the images AW: I have no real hobbies, but I love the elusive and complex personage of the nuances in Liszt’s music? After all, reading poetry and I love watching old nuance is where music’s meaning resides. Liszt with imagination and the presence black-and-white movies, especially the of some important pianists. Really a total The fact is, Liszt is not performer-proof. ones made in England before World There are some composers who can surprise, a very happy one. I hope [you] survive the worst playing. No matter how War II, when actors knew how to speak continue with this wonderful endeavour, terrible the performance, the value of the the English language. helping young people to identify with the great composers."

6 The American Liszt Society - www.americanlisztsociety.net A Conversation with Composer-Pianist Kris Becker

Editor’s Note: I first met ALS member KB: The account goes it all began when School of Music), the overarching goal Kris Becker in 2000 when I served as as a three-year-old I approached the was to develop as a pianist and learn his piano advisor at the University of family piano (which no one played) and to interpret music of other composers. Illinois. I had heard about his prowess began to pick out a melodic idea that I Original composition was a side as a pianist, but was totally overwhelmed described to my mother as "something endeavor at the time, and I focused on by his musical and technical abilities that has just been in my head," previously developing my piano life to a very high at such a young age. Now established having left the instrument untouched. degree, eventually experiencing success as a trailblazing and award-winning Good recorded musical art was in the in international piano competitions composer while employing the piano home thanks to the discriminating, and playing internationally with as his primary performance tool, Kris's substantive tastes of my family, and early orchestras. Ian Hobson laid the pianistic original music is receiving much attention musical explorations for me involved foundation, while Robert Roux (Rice and performance by pianists and playing by ear, attempting to compose, University) took my knowledge and instrumentalists worldwide. Kris and I staging elaborate pretend productions, capacity to new levels - I owe much to have kept in touch by e-mail, often when and making albums on home cassette them both. It was really after school, he releases new music or has received an tape. One moment I would fancy however, that my truest artistic desires award. He is an unassuming fellow with myself a member of Tom Petty & The (namely a life of creation) gradually a wonderful disposition, humble in spite Heartbreakers and the next I'd escape into became clear, and all my latent aspirations of his great talent. I could well imagine Beethoven sonatas. My formal training exploded into a frenzy of discovery and him to be a student of Liszt if only we began at age seven with a wonderful “mavericking” about. had the luxury of time machines! Kris teacher named Marilyn Bennett. I Becker and his music can be found, seen, somehow always knew I would be a ER: When and how did you become and heard online at krisbeckermusic.com, professional musician, both creator and so interested in composition? with his most recent releases streamed at performer. soundcloud.com/kris-becker-music. KB: To be sure, "composer" and ER: Was there a single event that "performer" are equal parts of my name captured your interest in music, or and I can't survive without interacting Edward Rath: Could you tell us about someone in particular that sparked with an audience. It's just that creating where you were born and something that interest? and exhibiting my own music is my prime about your pre-college education? passion. I was always creatively curious, KB: Honestly, I believe it was simply so once girded with proper theoretical Kris Becker: First, I always clarify that I always there, authored by our Creator. training beginning in college (I had am the "Kris with a K" Becker, because But once on planet Earth, my radar began such great theory teachers!), something there exists in the flesh a different to pick up signals. Evidence from a wee ignited in me and I then moreover had "Chris Becker" composer, living in age: pictures of me staring at Charlie a framework within which to express. Houston, Texas where I also currently Daniels on TV, kicking in the womb upon Still going to school in official terms to reside. Could you imagine a Franz "List" experiencing the organ at church.... One be a pianist, the previously untapped living contemporaneously in Weimar thing especially took me to another place, compositional talent and desire suddenly circa 1850?! My family origins are in a recording of the first movement of surfaced. It kept growing exponentially agricultural Illinois. Growing up in a Beethoven's "Moonlight" Sonata. With this between independent (yet informed) small town and removed from centers work I was totally transported, completely study, lessons with great composers such of artistic activity, my very supportive engrossed. After a time into my early as Karim Al-Zand, and discovering that parents ensured I would receive the formal music education I would hear others strongly liked what I created from education and exposure I needed. In the concert pianists play concerti and decided both a craft and sound standpoint. In midst of traditional public school work I too wanted to be able to do that, thus the midst of success as pianist post- I traveled significant distances to study launched more extensive and dedicated grad school, I became dissatisfied with serious classical piano starting at age 11 training. laboring so much for the sake of notes with Roger Shields (a student of Soulima I did not create - every moment of Stravinsky), then Dorothy Munger ER: How did music shape your a traditional, established composer I (former Indianapolis Symphony pianist university educational pursuits? prepared felt viscerally like one note and and student of Guy Maier), and finally phrase of Becker I did not create. So, Ian Hobson (University of Illinois) KB: In retrospect, my university pursuits six years ago I decided to make my life while still in high school, all while seeing were variably somewhat to significantly about my own music, as I knew it was my great concerts and listening to a host of different from what I would explore calling. recordings. Participating and pursuing thereafter, yet they also were undoubtedly interest in non-classical genres was the bedrock of my knowledge base in ER: Can you tell us a little bit about equally a definer. creation and performance, and I am very your original works? thankful for that invaluable education. ER: When were you first aware of At the time of undergraduate (B.M., KB: Upon completion of my first work your serious interest in music? University of Illinois) and graduate study for piano eleven years ago, Variations and (M.M., Rice University Shepherd School (continued on next page)

Volume 30, Number 1 7 Kris Becker (continiujed from previous page)

Fantasias on a Somewhat Serious Theme, soon childhood and it enthralled me. In high wants to play is supremely difficult. I was playing this and more in concert school, Dorothy Munger assigned me the The Sonata is one of those seminal alongside the music of the established Widmung transcription (Schumann-Liszt) achievements of art that needs to be masters. Listeners took to the music with and Two Concert Etudes: "Waldesrauschen" studied by anyone who purports to be enthusiasm, and while I was composing and "Gnomenreigen." From these I well read, and this work more than any for the sake of composing, commissions began to grasp that Liszt's concept was other makes me take in the nature and came in and other pianists started playing formidable to execute (yet elevating efficacy of Liszt's ability and psycho- my music in concert and competition. when rising to the demands), innovative, spiritual energy. By 2008, I had enough to record a full imaginative, and rewarding, really a cut album of original compositions, entitled above. My developing composer mind ER: Has Liszt influenced your own Inventions - this unusual project displayed took note of his ingenious textures, music? solo piano material, art songs, rock songs, harmonic suavity, sweep of phrase, and jazz compositions. The more recent overall compass of gesture, and span in KB: When I had revisited Liszt in earnest Expansions album is more disciplined, spirit from fiendish to transcendent. Yet his breadth, fervor, and reach became featuring the demanding Piano Sonata it took me many more years to appreciate additional inspiration for a mindset No.1, compositions for developing this composer-pianist as he deserved. I already lived by. As one example, pianists with weird titles like, The Blowtorch Although I had known and played my piano fantasy is the essence of an Rondo and Mixolydian Meltdown, and Liszt's music as pianist, it took becoming orchestral tone poem, Enticements & music for woodwinds. Presently I'm primarily a composer personally to unlock Eternity: psychological drama for solo continually releasing new creations online. deeper insight; new ears, new mindset. piano, took this shared world view of I'm particularly excited that established In the summer of 2012 I popped in virtuosity and experimental inclination for concert artists as well as students of all an album of Liszt etudes as well as Jay pushing limits to the extreme. Enticements ages and levels from children through Hershberger's Transfigured Shadows Liszt & Eternity grew virtually into the most post-graduates are learning, studying, and disc for the sake of compositional study difficult piece of music I had ever played, performing Kris Becker music. and perceived a level of genius and and I did it to myself! In technique, spiritual power far, far greater than I Liszt's astute employment of thematic ER: How would you describe your previously had in this composer. Upon transformation was an intellectual model music? a fresh review of more of the canon, the for the piece, as nothing was more apt complex and enigmatic totality of what to facilitate its progression of thought. KB: I call my style "nu-classical": Liszt was as man and musician struck Yet just as much, as a spiritually invested classically structured and crafted concert me with ferocity, no less the technical person myself the original program for music composed in a contemporary compositional brilliance. Not just piano the work seemed after the fact in line mindset and time but rooted in tradition, works but orchestral masterpieces such as with a Lisztian propensity: struggling flowing with the undercurrents of Les Préludes and A Faust Symphony fed what against temptation, falling into it, other genres, and played often with had become a significant admiration for and understanding imperfection and non-classical sensibilities yet all with this creator and thinker. redemption. A man vexed by the carnal underlying classical chops. Nu-classical and saved by the spiritual yet constantly in music is a genuine fusion of classical ER: Do you have a favorite Liszt a tussle between the two, I relate to Liszt's structure with non-classical impulses, work? Tell us about how you came to parallel preoccupations. not concert music that merely references put this one work at the top of the list. other styles. I have never been a genre ER: Does anything else regarding purist, and the impulses of jazz, jazz KB: While I admire so much of his Liszt inspire or interest you? fusion, Latin, jazz rock, rock, progressive music, the Sonata in B Minor still stands rock, metal, funk, pop, and so on find out. As composer and lifelong student KB: When the two forces of composer their way into the mix just as much as of creative craft, I, as any similarly wired and performer combine in one person or classically-oriented stimuli do. It was mind, am extra attuned both to the entity, it's very fascinating to me no matter always natural for these elements to come tangibles of great construction and the the genre, granted not all musicians are together for me and not intentional at intangibles of the special spark that great designed or intended to be in both roles. first. My music aims for intellectual and music possesses, the "as unpremeditated" We are well aware how much the level of technical achievement in company with as pure improvisation, all imbued with both pursuits defined Liszt. An audience visceral enjoyment. inventiveness and emotional penetration. member at a recent all-Becker show in It's not just good craft, it's also wonderful New York quipped, "In Kris's case I can't ER: When did Liszt enter your for the ear - appeal, depth, and the begin to separate the performer from the musical life? vanguard all meet in this work. Liszt composer. It was like Liszt on Special K." the great composer-pianist created Entertaining as the comment is, I also KB: Probably with Bugs Bunny, as herein a magnum opus that also gives its appreciate the sentiment and am glad to "Rhapsody Rabbit" left a mark, no joke! performer endless value; to marry great be an artistic-spiritual inheritor. The second Hungarian Rhapsody was content with something a performer (continued on next page) thus the first Liszt I heard in young

8 The American Liszt Society - www.americanlisztsociety.net Kris Becker (continued from previous page)

ER: Please tell our readers about your extent in providing its practitioners business as you can as well as the current professional activities. a living outside the bounds of its tools and techniques of promoting established environments; this has yourself. Another topic, while perhaps KB: Composing is but one of several become the case even in many uncomfortable to discuss but essential: I vocational manifestations. Works for traditionally publicly-accepted, non- strongly and regularly advise musicians- strings, ensembles, and a piano concerto classical genres. Yet another hurdle for a in-the-making to prepare for the expenses are on the horizon. Beyond my nu- trained and capable musician: virtuosity that can be many in the establishment classical concert music I compose, is widely denigrated or at least greeted of a music career, a lifestyle that requires songwrite, sing, and front for the fusion with apathy, not upheld, in today's culture capital but doesn't create much of it for rock band Kris Becker & The Frozen and at the minimum it's misunderstood. quite some time in most cases. Due to Heat. A full debut album thereof is in An increasingly common reaction to affordability, I had to store my acoustic the making, and interestingly much of virtuosity in any genre: "Those guys are pianos away for years while living in an my concert music translates note-for- just playing for themselves" or "that's too apartment, and composed and practiced note in this context. Upcoming in 2015 over the top" (all in derogatory tones), on a digital keyboard! There are ways to is an album of yours truly playing the instead of "Wow, that's inspiring and facilitate one's preparation, and I suggest classical compositions of Mike Garson, I want to be able to do that myself." devoting time to seeking them out. who has served as David Bowie's pianist. Remarkable lack of desire for elevation. He's a wonderful composer with a heavy That stated, I piece together a life ER: You have received many awards classical and jazz background, and he and work to create demand for what I during and after university work. cites Liszt as a major influence. do so that I can operate on a daily basis Which holds the most meaning for While I independently teach music on my own terms vocationally and not you and why? disciplines and mentor developing artists, on someone else's, an existence founded perhaps most importantly I coach and on my ideas and the way I wish to share KB: I am very thankful for the train both students and professionals in them. It is another personal hope acknowledgment that has helped initiate the skills of performance psychology. It that entrepreneurship will be a vehicle my profile in the profession. To be makes an enormous difference for the to help educate others on what they known for ideas that first came through better. When I learned from master don't yet understand. A reviewer has me and not someone else is my desired performance coach and psychologist commented, "I think music like that [of identity. As such, two recent awards as Dr. Jon Skidmore that the skills and Becker's] is worthwhile to the masses of composer hold special meaning: one of tools of performance are separate and listeners on the fringe of [classical] music only two honorees in the Music Teachers distinct from those of making music, because it challenges definitions and National Association Distinguished and then acquired and applied them, breaks down barriers between the music Composer of the Year Award 2013 for my performance ability, enjoyment, they are familiar with and that which Enticements & Eternity, and winning the and success improved drastically. If they have never heard (most [classical] 2013 IBLA European Grand Prize as its only this were required curriculum for music)." This is among my goals, whether highest-scoring composer for the Piano all performers everywhere, so many operating in established systems or Sonata No.1 - confirmation that both more would reach and achieve peak creating new avenues. inspiration and craft are operating at a performance consistently. Perhaps we level for which I have aimed. Now, with would all become Liszts! For starters, ER: What would you recommend to other performers taking up my music, I imagine you are always creating while someone in high school or college am already living a dream come true! you play and watch your enjoyment and in terms of how best to prepare for a power augment. musical career? ER: You regularly perform as a pianist. Do you have any upcoming ER: In the past decade or more, KB: It's a very tough road, but you will plans for recitals, and does Liszt have there has been an increasing interest endure what you have to if you want a place in them? in “entrepreneurship.” What does the career. Of course develop your that term mean to you, and how does artistry and craft steadily, learn the tools KB: While so much of my time is now your musical life demonstrate that of the trade, don't worry if you haven't consumed with composing and all the meaning? figured out exactly what it is you want to business related to it, I play a select do yet (it can come to you at any time), number of concerts per year both on KB: Our culture is in a poor condition, explore and study as much as you can, be established series and venues and via and today's world requires innovative teachable, don't overextend yourself, etc. self-organized events, performing entirely means to survive if one is going to be an But here's the equally important stuff you original Becker or mostly Becker. It is artist, then to add be an artist in what has cannot live without: learn how to talk to very satisfying to be asked increasingly to become an educated niche as far as the people, maintain connections, and be a perform my own music exclusively. An general public is concerned. Things are good networker - networking may be the upcoming appearance at the PARMA not set up well for success. But it's not biggest factor of all in your success; and Music Festival in New Hampshire only concert/classical music that can no if you want to be an artist striking out on (August 16) will feature yours truly longer readily sustain itself to a great your own, learn as much about the music playing Becker. (continued on page 16)

Volume 30, Number 1 9 A Conversation with Judith Neslény

Editor’s Note: I first met Judith Neslény Mr. Faragó died, and I missed him to the US and study with her at USC in in 2004 when I served as an adjudicator terribly. Somehow I continued with my Los Angeles. at the Los Angeles International Liszt music, doing a lot of improvising on the Competition (LAILC). Our professional piano. We had lots of musical gatherings ER: How did music shape your acquaintance developed over the years like string quartets at the house. It was a university educational pursuits? through various publications and festivals happy/unhappy time in my life because of the American Liszt Society, a second of the war - but I never lost sight of JN: I studied Latin and Greek, as well stint by me as an adjudicator at LAILC, my goals: to be a fine musician, a good as ancient art, but music was the main and most recently at the reopening person, and to help others in any way I pursuit that carried me on. ceremonies in the newly refurbished could. The sad happenings of the war Grand Hall of the Franz Liszt Academy only underlined my wishes. I always felt ER: When did Liszt enter your of Music in Budapest. Over the years I had a mission to fulfill, but at that age I musical life? we have become musical friends in the did not know what it was, yet. service of Liszt, during which time I JN: I consider Ferenc Liszt as my friend. have found her to be a most talented and ER: When were you first aware of My life was always about him, and I was gracious person. your serious interest in music? surrounded by mementos of him, and I read many, many books about him. As a Edward Rath: Please tell us about JN: It was the time when Hungary little girl, I identified with him as a child where you were born and something became a “socialist building" country, prodigy; as I grew up, I identified with about your pre-college education? as the ideologies of Marx, Lenin, him as a young artist, and then a teacher and Stalin say, when in the name of as well. Judith Neslény: I was born in Budapest, “communism” our house and holdings The Franz Liszt Academy was into a musical family. My father, Ede were “nationalized” - taken! - and we always present in my life through my Pfeiffer, was a well-known violinist, and were practically put out on the street. father's activities around the Liszt my grandmother played the cimbalom, an The government said we were the culture, and I always wanted to study original Hungarian instrument that so “enemy of the country” because of our Liszt’s compositions. Sorry to say, inspired Liszt - and inspired me, too! We holdings. We were forced to move, and I the Hungarian pedagogy in my time had a grand piano in the home, and I then realized that I had nothing else but pronounced that "You have to wait also had a chance to get acquainted with my piano and music to hold on to. and be ready to play Liszt." Therefore, an Ehrbar concert grand that was at the I was 15, and decided to audition the curriculum postponed the Liszt music school my father established in for the Liszt Academy. I felt that our pieces in favor primarily of Bach, Hódmezővásárhely (Hungary). I just family had been betrayed and punished Mozart, Haydn, and Beethoven - only simply played those instruments, and at innocently, and I must show everyone in many years later could I touch a Liszt the age of five my father decided that the world that we are still good people piece. But, in reality, I started to play I needed professional instruction, first when it comes to proving one's ability. Liszt earlier - “unofficially” - because by him and then by Rozsi Fraknói, an First I was accepted as a student by of my father's encouragement. (By the outstanding pianist/teacher, herself a János Szirányi, a Dohnányi pupil and way, I find it rather ironic that so many pupil of Margit Varro. Even today I think fine pianist, and later by István Antal, of the adjudicators at our L.A. Liszt those two were my best teachers. who had studied with Leonid Kreutzer in Competition - including those from the When I was about eight years old, Berlin. I studied composition with Antal Franz Liszt Academy! - are amazed by we moved back to Budapest because Molnár, János Visky, Lőrinc Kesztler how well a younger person may be able my father was appointed to lead the (whom I considered the best), and Zoltán to handle those “difficult” pieces and play violin studies at the National Music Kodály. them so very musically, too!) Conservatory. In Budapest I continued private study with Ms. Fraknói and ER: Was there a single event that ER: Please tell our readers about your György Faragó, the day's “piano captured your interest in music, or professional career. sensation” on the concert stage and as someone in particular that sparked professor at the Liszt Academy. He had that interest? JN: My music career started when I studied with Dohnányi. My father and was born into the music of Beethoven's Mr. Faragó went to the same high school JN: During these “socialist building" Violin Concerto. I grew up hearing Bach and were good friends. During that time years, I listened to Gilels, Richter, solo sonatas or Mendelssohn’s Violin I played in many recitals, improvised Rostropovich, and all the great Russians, Concerto, etc. I worked with the teachers for company, and enjoyed being a but my idol, of course, was the great mentioned above and many more when “musician” already. I got acquainted Hungarian pianist Annie Fisher. And I studied for the Artist and Teaching with the wonderful violin literature by then there was Rosina Lhevinne. At the Diplomas at the Bartók Conservatory and accompanying my father and/or his time, Rosina was an unreachable dream. Liszt Academy in Budapest. students. Little did I know that much later, as a During those years I entered and won Unfortunately, World War II scarred result of the Hungarian Revolution and many competitions, both in piano and our lives. Our home was bombed. "Freedom Fight" of 1956, I would move composition, because we needed the prize (continued on next page)

10 The American Liszt Society - www.americanlisztsociety.net Judith Neslény (continued from previous page) money . . . and I simply always won! The Hungarian premiere of my Cantata the City Council and Mayor of Los In 1956, right after the first Liszt 1956 took place in 2006. The Legend of Angeles presented me with a Competition in Budapest following the the White Stag, originally for chorus and Commendation for Community Service end of World War II, the "Freedom chamber ensemble, received its premiere for the 23 years of constant effort in Fight," in which I actively participated, and was performed many times in organizing and carrying on the Los broke out, and then I spent a whole year California. The Hungarian premiere took Angeles International Liszt Competition. in the hospital after I came to California place in 2010, when it was presented in My good friend and colleague, Geraldine in 1957. This move was by the grace a more narrative fashion in a setting for Keeling, was so honored, too. of the special refugee program of solo and chorus, and performed by the President Eisenhower, and also through outstanding Erkel Choir in Gyula. ER: When you were in Budapest last the sponsorship of the Church World fall, you undertook many activities at Service, whose generous donation for ER: What led to your involvement the Franz Liszt Academy. Can you tell my hospitalization kept me alive and later with the Los Angeles International us about these events? allowed me to become a US citizen after Liszt Competition, and how did you five years. become Co-Director? JN: For many years I have been in At the outset in California, I rented close professional relationships and on a piano for $5 per month. Soon, I JN: I met Geraldine Keeling in 1986 a friendly basis with the Liszt Academy received invitations to play solo and also at one of her lectures, and we became and its professors. A few years ago, with my violinist father. Eventually, lifelong friends. It was Gerry's idea to Dr. András Batta, then President of I became a member of the Music have a competition, and to show off the Academy, invited me to teach and Teachers’ Association of California how much we treasure the lifework present master classes. On the occasion and the American Liszt Society. I was of promoting the music of Liszt in of the reopening of the newly renovated also engaged by Community Concerts, California. As the political situation Academy building, it was part of my under the auspices of Columbia Artists changed in Hungary during the late donation – to give back some of what I Management, Inc. (CAMI), to play 1980s, Gerry was able to invite Mária was given in that historical building that concerts in New York and all over Eckhardt to California, where Maria now shines in all its original beauty - to the country. In 1970, I played all five could hear for herself some of our once again teach those talented young Beethoven piano concertos as part of young outstanding students, some of artists who one day may bring us together the Beethoven bicentennial. From 1974 whom played Liszt before the age of in music, anywhere in the world! I wanted to 1984, I was Guest Artist/Visiting 12 (including a nine-year old girl playing to tell those gifted young musicians as Professor at California State University the “Rigoletto” Paraphrase). There were much as I could, to guide them in any way in Los Angeles. I also taught piano older students, too, and we included I could at my age and by my experience, at Pasadena City College, as a Guest both piano and voice. (Voice was very to make them more ready for a successful Lecturer. I’ve given numerous benefit important for the both of us, because career anywhere life will take them. I recitals, including concerts for the in the Liszt oeuvre, his vocal genius is also created a scholarship for a talented L.A. Music Center and Disney Hall. I so often overlooked.) As a result of composition major in memory of my performed the Opening Gala Concert at this event, Maria then offered to let only son, Andor Neslény. Together with Norton Simon Museum, Pasadena. Of us use the Concert Hall in the Liszt the President of Hungary, Dr. János course, I have played all-Liszt recitals in Memorial Museum and Research Centre Áder, I helped provide funding for a the area, and I have maintained a private in Budapest to present our Budapest Liszt manuscript – his orchestration studio in Pasadena and Glendora; and I Concert Award Winner. of Schubert’s Erlkönig - for the Liszt served as organist at Unity Center in La Museum. Crescenta from 1974 - 2000. ER: I noticed in Los Angeles and As a true Hungarian patriot, I always In 1989, with the downfall of the more recently in Budapest that you want to give everything I can to my Soviet Union, things began to change wear a beautiful medal awarded to homeland. Gerry and I both have done for the better in Hungary. In 1991, I you by the Hungarian Government. many benefit events in support of the went back to Budapest for the first time Please tell us about this award. Liszt Society of Budapest as well as for in 35 years at the invitation of Mária the Liszt Museum. For both of us, it has Eckhardt to play in the Liszt Museum, JN: In 2006, the Republic of Hungary been and will always be our mission! and I have returned many times since. I honored me with the Knights’ Cross of still play the piano and teach privately in the Order of Merit in recognition of ER: You are continuing to perform as Pasadena, offer master classes and courses the 50 years during which I constantly a pianist; do you have any upcoming at the Liszt Academy, have presented promoted music of the 20th Century plans for recitals, and does Liszt have recitals on four continents, and so on. and of Franz Liszt. To date, I am the a place in them? I continue actively as a composer, only person in California who was too. In 1994, my Magyar Requiem received awarded this medal for musical activities. JN: My friend Franz Liszt will always its world premiere in the Grand Hall of I am just as grateful for the other be with me, on stage and at home. I the Liszt Academy, conducted by Mátyás acknowledgments for my music activities will always have at least one of his Antal, son of my teacher, István Antal. in California, most recently in 2012, when masterpieces in my programs, as long as (continued on page 15)

Volume 30, Number 1 11 Member News

Sophia Agranovich presented a recital symphony orchestra combining musicians piano." Nelita True, Eastman School of on May 31 at 8:00 pm at the Watchung from the big Leipzig orchestras with Music. Arts Center in Watchung, NJ. The music students and amateurs. Ever since According to a press release from the program included, among other pieces, its debut in 1981 it has performed six publisher, Guide to the Pianist’s Repertoire the "Wanderer" Fantasy by Schubert and Academic Concerts annually in the Great continues to be the go-to source for Four Ballades by Chopin. A reception Hall of the Leipzig Gewandhaus, each piano performers, teachers, and students. followed the concert. concert being sold out across a period of Newly updated and expanded with Sophia also announces a new CD 33 years. over 250 new composers, this resource release, Passion and Fantasy, featuring The Leipzig Burgomeister, in his expertly guides readers to solo piano Beethoven's Sonata No. 23 in F minor ceremonial address, described the literature. Featuring information for ("Appassionata)," Op. 57, Chopin's Academic Orchestra as “the third more than 2,000 composers, the Fourth Fantaisie, Op. 49, and his Sonata No. 3 in supporting pillar of the musical life of Edition includes enhanced indexes. More B minor, Op. 58. It has received a rave Leipzig, side by side with those of the information at http://www.iupress.indiana. review in Fanfare Magazine. You may read Gewandhaus and the Radio Symphony edu/catalog/806940. a second review in Audiophile at http://t. Orchestra.” co/WD4pitsVF6. The CD is available Next season the repertoire will include John Hord presented "Gems of Piano through iTunes, Rhapsody, and Amazon, a rare work by Franz Liszt: the Fantasie Literature: Digging Through the Treasure and will also be available at ArkivMusic, and Fugue on "Ad nos, ad salutarem undam," Chest," a lecture/recital of works that Barnes & Noble, HBDirect, and other which will be performed on December are known and unknown, on April 25 in sites. 15, 2014, in the version for organ and Roseville, California, and sponsored by orchestra by Marcel Dupré, played by the the Sierra Branch of the MTAC. Luiz de Moura Castro will perform resident Gewandhaus organist Michael a solo recital in the Grand Hall of Schoenheit and the Academic Orchestra. Justin Kolb collaborated with Michael the Franz Liszt Academy of Music in For the final concert of the season, Eva Teolis and the "Michael Teolis Singers" Budapest on November 20. The concert Polgar, the first prize winner of the as soloist in Peter Schickele's Concerto will be presented in memory of Luiz's International Los Angeles Franz Liszt for Piano and Chorus: The Twelve Months." teacher at the Liszt Academy, Mihály Competition in 2012, has been invited The concert took place on Saturday, Bächer (1924 - 1923). Last October, to perform in the Gewandhaus with the May 3rd, at First United Methodist Luiz and his wife, Bridget, attended the Leipzig Academic Orchestra under the Church in Oak Park, Illinois. More reopening of the Grand Hall. baton of Dr. Förster. recently, Justin was featured along with Carey Harrison in three performances Karin Redekopp Edwards has been Maurice Hinson and Wesley Roberts of "Seven Favorite Maladies of Ludwig honored with the Wheaton College are the co-authors of Guide to the Pianist's van Beethoven," a new play by Carey Senior Academic Achievement Award Repertoire, 4th Edition. This encyclopedic Harrison commissioned by the Phoenicia for sustained excellence in performance reference work is now available from International Festival of the Voice and teaching. She has completed a Indiana University Press. A substantial 2014. The play is about the sublime, the performance and teaching tour of the section is devoted to the solo piano works ridiculous, and the profoundly touching Kunming area of China, also performing of Liszt. troubled life of the great composer. You a concert for the American Ambassador "The release of any book by Maurice may view a picture of Justin en costume at to Laos, foreign diplomats, embassy staff, Hinson (this time with co-author Wesley http://www.phoeniciavoicefest.org/seven-favorite- and other guests. A duo-piano CD with Roberts) is a major event, especially in maladies-of-ludwig-van-beethoven. Karin and Mark Edwards is to be released the piano world. This Fourth Edition of this fall. As Redekopp & Edwards, the Guide to the Pianist's Repertoire represents Michael Lewin reports that Sono two have performed tours of Japan, an accomplishment of staggering Luminus has released two new recordings South Korea, Canada, and the US. proportion, with over 1200 pages, of his as part of an extensive long-range more than 300 pages longer than the recording contract. Summer 2013 saw Horst Förster, Music Director of the Third Edition. Dr. Hinson describes it the release of Piano Phantoms, 18 works Leipzig Academic Orchestra and well as an updated "practical listing of the inspired by ghosts, goblins, phantoms, known as conductor at several Liszt important piano literature," but it offers and the spirit world. Works by two Liszt Festivals in Hamilton, Ontario, has significantly more than that. In addition students are on this disc: Carl Tausig's The been awarded the Medal of Honour by to the inestimable value of finding little- Ghost Ship and Julia Rivé-King's March of his native city of Leipzig. Dr. Förster known works, the reader also benefits the Goblins. Their newest project, out in founded the orchestra in 1954 with from the lucid descriptions and practical March 2014, is Beau Soir: Debussy Préludes, only eight students, and he has guided it information about piano music from Livre II and Other Works. This is the first- through all the changes and difficulties of 1700 to the present. This "Guide" is ever recording of the Debussy Préludes in the times until today. At present it is an an extraordinary resource for anyone Blu-Ray surround sound. Forthcoming independent, semi-professional devoted to the rich repertoire for the will be a follow-up Debussy recording, which will include the Préludes, Livre I. (continued on next page)

12 The American Liszt Society - www.americanlisztsociety.net More Member (continued fromNews previous page) ALS Honors Seven Pioneers (continued from page 3)

Jerome Lowenthal recently released Dmitry Rachmanov, Head of LUIZ De MOURA CASTRO a new recording for Bridge Records: Keyboard Studies at CSU Northridge, Among the treasures of the American Rochberg, Chihara, Rorem (BRIDGE 9417). dedicated his spring 2014 sabbatical Liszt Society, perhaps the most precious Lowenthal has chosen repertoire to a recital project featuring works by is the remarkable level of musical talent with which he has had a particularly Alexander Scriabin (1872-1915) on the existing in its membership. It is not an close association. The works by Chihara eve of the composer’s 100th memorial exaggeration to claim that Luiz de Moura and Rorem were each composed for anniversary. The program was a synopsis Castro can be considered an artist in Lowenthal, as was George Rochberg’s of the composer’s stylistic development the highest ranks of this outstanding Carnival Music. Lowenthal’s long through nearly three decades of creativity, level of excellence. He has performed association with Rochberg’s music is the from his adolescent Chopinesque works to enthusiastic acclaim throughout the major focus of this program. In addition through the futuristic compositions of world, and his soul reflects the generosity to the authority which he brings to these 1910s. In addition to recitals, Rachmanov and spiritual confraternity so typical of scores, Lowenthal has written notes about offered lectures and master classes, Liszt. On this fiftieth anniversary of the all of the compositions heard here: touring some US campuses, including Cal ALS it is proper to recognize this icon of Rochberg's Partita-Variations (1976), State System Universities at Sacramento, high standards, warmth, and generosity, Carnival Music (1976), and Nach Bach: San Francisco, and Sonoma; Brigham whose ideals we as a Society aspire Fantasia (1966); Rorem's 75 Notes for Young University and Utah Valley to emulate as a fitting role model for Jerry (2007); and Paul Chihara's Bagatelles University; University of Nebraska; Lisztians the world over. (2012). A review by James Manheim is University of Oklahoma; Boston available at http://www.allmusic.com/album/ University, New England Conservatory, ALAN WALKER rochberg-chihara-rorem-mw0002639421. and Boston Conservatory; Appalachian There is not today, nor has there ever (Much of this information is taken from State (NC), University of South Carolina, been, a Liszt scholar to compare to a press release distributed by Bridge and Winthrop University (SC). He then Alan Walker. His monumental works Records.) presented the program at Zankel Hall at not only retell, but relive the life and Carnegie Hall on April 13 (a review may spirit of Franz Liszt, a great genius Evangelina Mitsopoulou is the First be accessed at http://nyconcertreview.com/ heretofore maligned and misrepresented Prize Winner of the 2014 Bradshaw & reviews/the-scriabin-society-of-america-presents- by earlier historians. As a society Buono International Piano Competition. alexander-scriabin-the-russian-prometheus-in- we would all strive to set the world On Sunday, May 18th, she performed at review/), Moscow International House straight regarding the spiritual depths, Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall. At of Music (April 23), and Budapest’s the musical uniqueness, and power for this point of her career, Evangelina says Center of the Russian Culture (April 29). good present in Liszt’s music, but none she "... would like to express my deepest Another performance at the Frederick of us has single-handedly made such a gratitude to all the prominent professors, Historical Piano Collection was reviewed difference in the Society’s 50 years as Alan pianists, musicologists, and foundations (Boston Musical Intelligencer [http://www. Walker. This citation is made with deep who supported me all these years with classical-scene.com/2014/06/02/scriabin- thankfulness to Alan for revealing to us a their guidance and their advice. This rachmanov]). Additionally, Dmitry took Liszt who could enter the depths of our includes Paul Badura-Skoda, Luiz de part in the annual American Liszt Society being and not simply or superficially ring Moura Castro, Michael Saffle, Nitza Festival held at James Madison University the bell of our senses. Kats, Rossana Dalmonte, Georges Freris, and gave presentations at the MTNA and Alan Walker, Leslie Howard, and Giulio MTAC 2014 Conventions. Draghi, as well as the;owing foundations Mundo en Armonia (President: Princess 2015 ALS Festival in Irene, Madrid), Academy of Athens (Greece), Fulbright Foundation (Greece), In Memoriam Denton, Texas and F.A.A.Th. (Thessaloniki, Greece). Howard Karp passed away on June 30, The next festival of the American Liszt "It was the consensus of the judges Society will take place September 16 that your performance reflects the depth 2014 at the age of 84. He is survived by his wife Frances and his two sons, - 18, 2015 at the College of Music on of interpretation, musicality, and technical the campus of the University of North expertise needed to distinguish oneself in Parry and Christopher. Howard joined the faculty of the School of Music at Texas in Denton, just a short trip north the world of professional performance, of the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Host for and we are very pleased to award you this the University of Illinois in Urbana- Champaign in 1962, where he remained the conference will be the distinguished honor. We also extend the thanks of our pianist and pedagogue, Joseph Banowetz, judges and staff, who agree that the high until 1972. He joined the faculty at the University of Wisconsin, where a member of the Board of Directors level of your talent made it an honor to of the American Liszt Society. In 1992, have you participate." he remained until his retirement. For more information and photographs Professor Banowetz was awarded the For more about her and the prestigious Liszt Medal by the Hungarian Competition, go to http://parallaximag.gr/ visit: http://welltempered.wordpress. com/2014/07/01/classical-music-pianist- Liszt Society in Budapest, in recognition parallax-view/mia-thessalonikia-sto-carnegie- of his outstanding performances of Liszt hall and click on Translate to English. howard-karp-who-taught-at-the-university-of- wisconsin-madison-has-died-at-84/. and the romantic piano literature.

Volume 30, Number 1 13 Chapter News

ALS Committee on Chapters Artist, 2011); Esther Park (Artist, selected organ works), the Liszt-Wagner Paul Barnes, Chair 2009);and Tatiana Muzanova (Artist "Liebestod," and Liszt’s Malédiction, 2013). with the strings of the FIU Symphony I wanted to share some of The Franz Liszt Award has been Orchestra. Performers were Kamilla the many thoughts that awarded to Kaczorowska-Lavandera in Szklarska, José López and Kemal have flooded my mind and 2009; Kostov-Valkov in 2011 (Franz Liszt Gekić. Jonathan Kregor, Editor of the heart since we all gathered Bicentennial Year); and to Strickling- ALS Journal, provided the commentary. in beautiful Harrisonburg Stepanova in 2013. Congratulations! The next program was presented in just a few short weeks The 2015 Liszt-Garrison Festival collaboration with the Greater Miami ago. I first of all want to thank Gabriel and International Competition will Youth Symphony (GMYS) and its Dobner and the rest of the piano take place in late October at NDMU, director, Huifang Chen, with soloist faculty at JMU for hosting one of the Baltimore, Maryland. Updates regarding Kemal Gekić, soloist. The program most enjoyable and fulfilling festivals competition rules and regulations will featured the orchestral version of Berlioz’ I’ve experienced in my 18 years in the be posted at www.lisztgarrisoncompetition.org Symphonie Fantastique (movements 4 and ALS. As I was at the closing banquet after August 30, 2014. 5) alongside Liszt’s solo transcriptions of sitting with all of my local chapter the same movements. Also included were presidents, the one recurring thought New York/New Jersey Chapter the Overture to "Tannhäuser" transcription, I had was the utter uniqueness of the Gila Goldstein, President and Liszt’s Fantasy on Hungarian Folksongs. group of supremely talented people that Jonathan Kregor again provided the are the ALS. I’ve been to so many other Our chapter had a very commentary. professional music conferences, as I know busy season of concerts Piano Master Series at the Deering many of you have. But I can honestly say, in 2013-2014, including Estate (second season) began with a that in no other group have I experienced programs presented concert on October 18, featuring Kemal the genuine rejoicing at the talent of by pianist Roberto Poli, Gekić performing the Four Scherzi by others that so characterizes the ALS. pianist Jeremy Jordan, Chopin, the Liszt-Wagner "Liebestod" The professional support I feel when I and violinist Joanna Kaczorowska and from Tristan und Isolde, and Liszt’s Sonata walk out on stage at an ALS festival is a pianist Pablo Lavandera. in B minor. On May 23, 2014, Tatiana world unto itself! Thank you again to all For the 2014-2015 season, we will Muzanova, first place winner of the who made the festival such a warm and welcome pianist Liza Stepanova and Liszt-Garrison International Competition, memorable event, and I look forward to friends on October 9. Ms. Stepanova presented works by Rachmaninov and seeing you all next year in Denton. is the prize winner in the solo and Liszt’s Sonata in B minor. collaborative categories of the 2013 As part of the Keyboard Arts Series at Baltimore-Washington Chapter Liszt-Garrison International Piano FIU, ALS members William Wellborn, Nancy Roldán, President Competition. On January 15, 2015, Ksenia Nosikova, and Gabriel Dobner pianist Lisa Yui will perform. We also presented recitals and master classes. The Baltimore-Washington are working on plans for another winter Chapter is pleased to recital at Montclair State University in announce the production New Jersey. of Franz Liszt: Visionary, a We have also started to plan our two-CD Album featuring calendar for the 2015-2016 season! On works by Franz Liszt as October 8, 2015, Luiz de Moura Castro performed by First Prize Winners of the will perform, and sometime in Winter/ Liszt-Garrison Competitions in 2009, Spring 2016 we will feature pianists Ory 2011, and 2013. Recordings were made during competition performances at Shihor and Sofya Melikyan. Notre Dame of Maryland University. Albums are sold at $15.00 each (www. South Florida Chapter lisztgarrisoncompetition.org). Sales will José Raoul López, President provide partial funding for the 2015 event celebrating the tenth anniversary of its The South Florida Chapter celebrated its Ksenia Nosikova and Justin Kolb enjoy a inauguration. conversation during a break in the festival Featured performers include mini-Liszt Festival at schedule. Photo courtesy Dominique Caplier. Collaborative Artists winners Joanna Florida International Kazorowska and Pablo Lavandera, University’s Wertheim violin and piano duo (2009); Lachezar Concert Hall in two Kostov and Viktor Valkov, cello and programs on October 19 and 20, 2013. piano duo (2011); Laura Strickling and The first program included works Liza Stepanova, soprano and piano duo by Wagner (Wesendonk Sonate), Alkan (2013); pianists Casey Rafn (Young (excerpts from Préludes, Op. 31 and

14 The American Liszt Society - www.americanlisztsociety.net LA Liszt Competition L.A. Group Honors Judith Neslény Dates Correction!! Liszt Museum (continued from page 11)

The dates for the 2014 Los Angeles The Collegium Corvinum in Los Angeles, I am be invited to play. Recently I have International Liszt Competition the Society of Hungarian Artists, been presenting lecture recitals on the are NOVEMBER 21, 22, 23. This Scientists and Intellectuals of the city, has Hungarian Rhapsodies. I have chosen information supersedes that provided recognized the achievements of the Liszt these marvelous works, primarily because in the last issue of the Newsletter! Ferenc Memorial Museum for the second I feel I can present them authentically, not Entry deadline (determined by time with the Silver Raven Medal. The only in musical terms, but in explaining postmark) is October 1, 2014. For award, which includes an inscription of the enormous difference between more information, please go to the the coat of arms of Matthias Corvinus “Hungarian gypsy” theory and the true LAILC website at http://www.liszt- (King of Hungary, 1458-1490), is given to folk music of the nation, the roots of competition.com/ artists and scientists who do their best to which were discovered and brought to promote Hungarian culture in Hungary international attention by Bartók and and abroad. The founding director of Kodály. Liszt-Garrison the Liszt Museum, Mária Eckhardt, received the award a few years ago in Los ER: In moments of relaxation and Competition Angeles, and the current award was given time for yourself, what other interests to the present director, Dr. Zsuzsanna do you pursue, such as pastimes or Announcement Domokos. The award was presented hobbies? The Liszt-Garrison Festival and by Dr. Andrea Vigh, the Rector of the International Piano Competition Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music on June JN: My hobby is music! But, but I have 2013 has announced a change in one 21 during the closing ceremony of the always designed houses and dresses, award category: the Franz Liszt Prize Academy's school year. Drs. Vigh and and I’ve written poetry and engaged in (Honorary) is now awarded to the Domokos expressed their gratitude for photography. I used to paint, etc., but for winners of the Collaborative Artists the honor bestowed upon the Museum, me nothing replaces a good conversation! Category: , soprano, and also expressed their thanks for Laura Strickling the confidence placed in them by the and Liza Stepanova, piano. The award ER: Anything else in conclusion? is presented to a duo or individual in Committee for their continued dedication recognition of distinguished performance to preserving Liszt’s spirit into the future. JN: Do not hesitate giving your and for acts reflecting the spirit of Liszt students Liszt pieces. There are many and his concept of “Génie oblige!”. As part easily playable, shorter works that Liszt of their award, Ms. Strickling and Ms. composed and are now available, thanks Stepanova have already performed on the Gabriel Dobner to new editions. Choose works that UUCC Chalice Music Series in Columbia Newest Member of will not be disappointingly difficult; and at St. Mary’s College of Maryland. just be sure the soul is there! There is The duo will be featured on November 2 the ALS Board a lifetime to master them, anyway. Let of this year on the "Chamber Music on them enjoy the hard work and the joy of accomplishment! the Hill" series at McDaniel College of Gabriel Dobner, principal host for the Maryland and in 2015 at Hood College in ALS festival at James Madison University, Frederick, Maryland. In addition, the duo was elected to the ALS Board of will be featured on April 11, 2015 in the Directors at its meeting in May 2014. “Music at Notre Dame Concert Series” in For a bio sketch of Gabriel, please go to ALS Invited to be Baltimore. http://www.jmu.edu/music/faculty_areas/ piano/faculty.html#dobner. a Partner with the Gabriel has written a thank you to Liszt Academy in everyone who participated in the 2014 In the Next Issue festival: Budapest "It was a great pleasure and honor Interviews with Board Members Ksenia for James Madison University to host The American Liszt Society has been Nosikova and LA Liszt Competition the 50th anniversary of the American invited to become a partner of the Franz founder Geraldine Keeling. Liszt Society. As is always the case with Liszt Academy of Music in Budapest! ALS gatherings, the collection of talent The logos of both the Academy and the Results of the 2014 Los Angeles was absolutely astounding. But, equally Liszt Memorial Museum and Research International Liszt Competition important is the camaraderie these great Centre are now placed in the left-hand musicians and lecturers bring to the ALS navigation bar of the ALS website, News about you and your chapter! Just when coming together to celebrate the which in turn may be accessed directly send it to [email protected]! Deadline life's work of one of the most important from the websites of the two Budapest for the next issue of the Newsletter: figures in music, Franz Liszt. Once again, institutions. ALS is proud to enter into December 15. Website: anytime!!! I would like to thank all the lovers of this cooperative spirit with our Hungarian Liszt who attended our festival!" colleagues as we work together to promote the music of Franz Liszt!

Volume 30, Number 1 15 Picture Page Kris Becker (continued from page 9) ER: And Liszt in the future? What do you hope for on the part of others?

KB: I could say much on that topic, but for one thing, I would love to see the classical music culture from the young student to the concert artist resurrect at greater magnitude the notion of performer-creator/creator-performer, in the spirit of the likes of Liszt. Other genres are largely centered around composer-performers, and we of course know that many concert-music stage artists in the past were also composers/ improvisers. This is exciting and Dr. Alan Walker addresses the 2014 Festival Dmitry Rachmanov and filmmaker Ophra Yerush- spontaneous not only for an audience audience. Photo courtesy Dominique Caplier. almi. Photo courtesy Dominique Caplier. but how valuable also for the performing musician! The benefits of the practice of creation to overall musicianship, comprehension, and delivery are profound.

ER: In moments of relaxation and time for yourself, what other interests do you pursue, such as pastimes or hobbies? KB: A few things recur: natural and holistic health, fitness and exercise; theology and doctrine study; humor; motorsport spectating; residual income creation; and above all hanging out with my wonderful wife Julie! Conversation, and creative or at least intelligent conversation, is among the best pastimes of all.

Some ALS Chapter Presidents and guests at the 2014 festival: (l to r): José López, Gila Goldstein, ALS ER: Anything else in conclusion? Chapters Committee Chair Paul Barnes, ALS VP Jay Hershberger, Daniel Paul Horn, Alexander Djord- jevic, Caroline Hong, and Kent Cook. KB: Be inspired, as was Liszt, to pursue your truest path in this precious life! It will exceedingly reward you and your fellow man!

Judith Nesleny (rh) with Dr. Andrea Vigh, Rector of the Liszt Academy, and Dr. András Batta, Former Rector. Judith is wearing the Knights’ Cross of the Order of Merit of the Republic of Hungary. Photo Dr. Andrea Vigh applauds Dr. Zsuzsanna Domokos Composer-Pianist Kris Becker. courtesy Marianna Sárközy. on receiving the Silver Raven Medal on behalf of the Photo by Bhavin www.userofreality.com. Liszt Museum in Budapest. Photo courtesy Franz Liszt Academy.

16 The American Liszt Society - www.americanlisztsociety.net