Juilliard asked us to perform in a special Carnegie Hall-sponsored concert in honor of the school's centennial year. The event, which took place at Zankel Hall on December 9, 2005, was entitled Juilliard Young Artists and Their Mentors. We, along with other selected Juilliard instrumentalists, were the so-called "young artists," and pianists Joseph Kalichstein and Brian Zeger were the feted "mentors." Because of this concert, we were given the wonderful opportunity to work closely with Mr. Kalichstein on the Brahms Sonata for Two Pianos in F minor, Op. 34b (more universally recognized as the Piano Quintet). In the end, our interpretation of this magnificent albeit notoriously difficult work was a fusion of Mr. Kalichstein's invaluable expertise and our own fiercely personal vision.
Many memories of this rewarding experience linger to this day: our musical collaboration with Mr. Kalichstein, an artist and person of the utmost class, wit, finesse, and generosity; our rigorous and sometimes emotionally-wrought rehearsals; falling in love with the duo version of Brahms's immortal Piano Quintet; playing the first movement (almost) exactly as we had hoped; enjoying the terrific acoustics of Zankel Hall while onstage; soaking in the rousing standing ovation from the full house; witnessing the smiling faces of family, friends, and fans. We were lucky to take part in this -- and so many other -- Juilliard Centennial celebrations during the 2005-2006 season. Happy 100th birthday to our beloved alma mater!
EJR, 27 Feb 2007
Just to add to what Liz stated -
Enter the backstage entrance to Carnegie Hall as a performing artist for the first time was a dream-come-true. Walking on stage was even better! I was overcome by the venue's sense of legacy and importance. The building has an amazing energy about it that certainly added to our performance. Thanks Juilliard for such an incredible experience!
GA