Pianist Awadagin Pratt Hosts Master Class

Earlier, I discussed the hand problems of Robert Schumann and the potential causes of said problems in a tongue-in-cheek blog about becoming a concert pianist. However, if you, or someone you know, REALLY wants to be a professional pianist, my next suggestion is actually a serious one: a master class with concert pianist Awadagin Pratt. My first encounter with him was at a conference some years ago. He quietly walked in carrying a stool that, for most of us, would make a nice footrest. Pratt is a big man, so when he sat down, only 13 1/2 inches off the floor, it was as though he wanted to be eye-to-eye with the Steinway he was about to tame.  He then proceeded to blow us all away, especially since we were within a few feet of the piano. When Pratt does a master class, his low-key demeanor changes as he begins trying to communicate verbally what his students need to understand musically. For me, the preparation of a piece is as fascinating as the piece itself, as you begin to delve into the composers intentions. A quote by Schumann may be the best way to characterize what Pratt and others attempt to accomplish in a master class. "Endeavour to play easy pieces well and beautifully; that is better than to play difficult pieces indifferently well. When you play, never mind who listens to you. Play always as if in the presence of a master." http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eBL3siZssKY