Music

Musical Experiences

I began studying the piano when I was about six. The joy of playing was somewhat diminished by the authoritarian approach of my mother, who carefully listened while I practiced and kept close track of the time. I persevered nevertheless, learned something about discipline, and became fairly proficient.

After leaving home for college at sixteen, I basically stopped playing for many years. In the early '70's I took up the flute at the urging of a musician friend, and found much enjoyment in it, although I never progressed very far in terms of technique.

In December of 1994 my mother bought me a piano, and I have hardly missed a day of playing since! I discovered, much to my amazement and delight, that I was able to pick up where I had left off some 40 years ago. It is incredible what the body remembers. Within a few months I had far surpassed my earlier accomplishments, and am now able to play through the Beethoven sonatas (my favorites are the Pathétique, Moonlight, Waldstein and Appassionata). Other favorite composers include Bach, Chopin, Schubert, Debussy, and Rachmaninoff.

I also enjoy playing jazz and improvising, creating what I call "soundscapes," as well as jamming with other musicians. Keith Jarrett, Cecil Taylor, and John Coltrane have certainly been great inspirations in this regard.

As a child, it was enough to play a piece in fairly correct timing, and without making too many mistakes. Now, with the experience of the years, feeling is far more important, and I can begin to understand the composer's intent as well as the notes. Playing often moves me to the depths of my being, and I cannot imagine receiving a greater gift than the piano. Bless you, Mother!

Music I Am Playing

J.S. Bach — Preludes, Fugues, Partitas, Organ Preludes and Fugues (tr. Liszt)

Links to Music on the Web

General

Music Resources on the Internet — Great, well-organized collection of music links

The Piano Page — Excellent info about choosing, playing, and caring for a piano

Classical

Johann Sebastian Bach Home Page

Jazz and Blues

Free Improvisation — Great site for Free Jazz and Improvisational Music

The Blue Highway — Curtis Hewston's definitive history/guide to the Blues

Jazz OnLine — A compendium of Jazz, Blues, news, views, and info

Rock, Pop, and Alternative

Internet Underground Music Archive — A site for independent bands and artists