Tuesdays 10-12 Noon
March 25 through May 13, 2003
D.O.C. House
"Richter is a world unto himself; impenetrable but radiant, an exotic fish, blind but luminous. That he is one of the greatest pianists of all time is disputed by no one . ...
"Only music, to which he gives life, possesses him. He plays, with no striving for effect. ...He simply plays.
"He is a free man."
Using CD's and videos, we will listen to Richter's performances (solo, concerti, and chamber). In some cases we will compare Richter's approach to a particular work with the performances of other pianists. Discussions will be encouraged and will be enhanced by readings and listening done outside of class. In addition to biographical information the required readings will include critical essays as well as comments about Richter from both intimate associates and contemporary musicians. An important by-product of the foregoing is that participants will become better acquainted with many of the acknowledged masterpieces of the piano literature.
This course will be similar to the one that was presented in 2001. However, the readings will be more manageable and the presentations will reflect the availability of a significant amount of new material. Although participants are not expected to have a technical background in music, it is assumed that they have an enthusiasm for classical music written for the piano, and that they are eager to learn more about it.
Class is limited to 20 members.
John Graney is retired and lives in Grantham, NH. He has a BA degree from Holy Cross College and advanced degrees from Boston University and the University of Notre Dame. Having been thoroughly involved in mathematics education at secondary boarding schools for 41 years, he managed to fulfill a love for music by being the founder and artistic director of two chamber music series, Music at Canterbury (CT), and Music in Deerfield (MA), the latter having recently completed its 24th season. He has been a long time member of the "Society of Friends of Sviatoslav Richter."
