(Why everyone wishes they had a grandfather like) Leon Fleisher!

Tonight, the Union Theater stage was graced with the technical mastery, artistic genius, and grandfatherly charm of one of music's true superheroes: Leon Fleisher. I had the distinct pleasure of meeting and escorting Mr. Fleisher yesterday after he taught a master class for UW students and a healthy crowd of curious music aficionados. When I shook his hand it occurred to me that I was touching a hand which, until a few years ago, did not function due to focal dystonia. If my musician's palm had curled into a motionless fist, would I be able to continue playing and teaching throughout my life, with no hope of a recovery in sight? I'm not so sure I would have the courage.

One interesting exchange took place after I gave the opening announcements:

Leon: Good job, did you practice that?
Me: Yeah...did YOU practice THAT? (gestures towards stage)

What struck me most about tonight's performance was the sense of effortlessness exuded by both Leon and his wife Katherine as they sat down to play four-handed works (that's when two people play one piano at the same time). One could easily imagine a pair of half-filled wine glasses resting on the piano as the couple sight-read old favorites in their living room, reminiscing about favorite past performances. The encore, a short Jazz-inspired tune, ended the recital on an optimistic note (pun intended), a fitting conclusion given the current economic crisis. But, in my opinion, the mere fact that people like Leon Fleisher live and work in this world is reason enough for optimism.

Happy Inauguration Day!

Happy Inauguration Day from the Wisconsin Union Theater.
We hope you took the time to watch the festivities - as Heather, Claire and I sat in the Rathskeller with many others this morning, we noted that the WUT has hosted at least two of the above performers!