11. JeanieA - Hallelujah[/b] Jeanie, I just love this tune and you did a nice job with it. I listen to the Rufus Wainright version all the time.

12. polostrings - Mr. Ng's news[/b] Beautiful piece Polo. It sounded a little similar to "All I ask from you" from phantom of the opera. You did a great job with this lovely tune.

13. The Schubertian - Haydn Sonata #59, Mov't 2[/b] I'm a slight closet classical fan but no-one knows that since I never play any. Your performance may inspire me to attempt to tackle some.

14. TrueBeginner - Couleur Tendresse ( Color of Tenderness ? )[/b] Very nice TB. That was a very dramatic performance.

15. Angelojf - Over the Rainbow[/b] Nice use of chords and fills. Your music is sounding fuller and richer all the time.

16. Serge88 - Yesterday[/b] Very smooth and relaxing. I can just picture how nice this piece would sound with some strings in the background. Nice rolling chords as well.

17. rustyfingers - Star Wars (Main Title)[/b] Way to go Rusty. C3p0 would have been proud!. I really liked the part where you used double progressive chords in both hands at once.

18. piano_deb (Deborah) - Für Elise (easy piano)[/b] YES, Fur Elise LIVES!! A perfect performance with spot on timing to boot!. Great job.

19. Undone (Jim) - Plaisir D'Amour[/b] Very nice Jim. I can't help but think the tune" I can't help falling in love with you" or "wise men say" were derived from this piece. You did a great job with it.

20. Copper - Part of Your World[/b] I enjoyed listening to Cap'n Cu over the airwaves. "This is your Captain playing'!. Nice job copper.

That's my story and I'm sticking to it! Seriously thanks for you support and encouragement. After that thread I was feeling ambivalent about submitting for the recital. Your encouragement meant a lot.

Last set of odd numbered entries.

51. YD - Chopin Valse Op.64 No.2[/b]
YD - I loved it! Very impressive Great job.

53. Yamaha G3 & P-80/ Mike White - Spanish Dance No. 2[/b]
Yes - you captured the Spanish sound perfectly. Good job, Mike!

55. Ovaltine - Claire de Lune[/b]
Beautiful! You have a very professional technique and touch.

57. ddh - Daniel - Greensleeves[/b]
Great job, Daniel. I especially liked the ending.

59. AdagioM (Michele) - Granados Medley[/b]
Nice pieces, Michele, and played very well.

61. Rockpeter - Album for the Young Op.68, No. 1[/b]
Good job, I liked it.

63. cscl - Andantino or Ivan Sings[/b]
You played the parts you have finished very well. Sounds very good.

Ed

Here are some random recital piece reviews:

41. Euan Morrison - Keyboard Concerto no.5 (2nd mov.)[/b]

Euan - very lovely - well played - could listen to this many times - excellent touch & control.

42. Monica K. - Everyday[/b]

Monica - very well played - impressive execution, especially at the accelerated tempo - not as melodic or romantic as a Roger's & Hammerstein classic - few things are - but great job!

44. Babs - Deep Heaven[/b]

Babs - nice job on the David Nevue piece - enjoyed that alot - there just might be something to the New Age stuff after all!

45. toucanjunky - Prelude No.4[/b]

toucanjunky - very nicely done - highly listenable!

47. GregF - Alexander's Ragtime Band[/b]

GregF - It wasn't too long ago that I was playing this in Alfred 2 - but not this well or lively - good job - liked the uptempo repeat!

48. Manndrew - The Long and Winding Road[/b]

Manndrew - wow! A professional sounding rendition - you are definitely "accomplished" - extremely well done - you playing is an inspiration.

50. I'm playing it better at home now - Sandy - Waltz Ab Opus 69 No. 1[/b]

Sandy - very nice work on this great classic.

52. Keith W - The Entertainer[/b]

Keith - well played Joplin - you've got it down real good.

54. Hisalone (Joel) - Maple Leaf Rag[/b]

Hisalone - excellent uptempo rendition of a difficult to play Joplin work - very nicely done!

55. Ovaltine - Claire de Lune[/b]

Ovaltine - just simply lovely! - great soft touch - wonderfully played - loved that!

57. ddh - Daniel - Greensleeves[/b]

ddh - very sweet version of this wonderful, tuneful old classic - I've been working on the Christmas version ("What Child is This"?) but it's nowhere near this beautiful - really nice job!

58. Mark... - Amazing Grace[/b]

Mark - good job on this great old hymn - nice playing!

60. jotur - Cathy Turner - It Had To Be You[/b]

jotur - it had to be you doing this great old pop standard from way back when - nice job!


Regards, JF

Third post of comments,

21 ─ epf — Rondino (Little Rondo) — Diabelli[/b]

Ed, this sure is an upbeat and beautifully played piece that grows on anyone who listens more than one time through. Your technique and dynamics make it difficult to move on to the next entry. Nice play.

22 — Bluekeys — Le Onde — Einaudi[/b]

Bluekeys, you are either really good at the keyboard or at editing. After listening to your splendid touch, I’ve concluded that your sparkling play didn’t need much editing help. Hauntingly soft and beautiful.

23 — TX-Dennis (Dennis Turner) — The Nearness of You — Washington/Carmichael[/b]

Dennis, it’s no wonder you love this song. The expression in your play that highlights this beautiful melody by a couple of pop legends is enough to form the backdrop of a movie love scene. This is an exceptionally beautiful song that you perform with all the ingredients to evoke beautiful romantic memories. Excellence and beauty make a wonderful combination.

24 — rocky — Serenade — Brickman/ Coates[/b]

Rocky, the accumulated time you have spent on the keyboard is taking over to make you a highly talented musician with beautiful expression just oozing from your delicate touch whether you like it or not. :—) Seriously, this is a beautifully performed piece. You did good, rocky!

25 — Kawai, HI — Theme from Fantaisie Impromptu Op. 66 — Chopin[/b]

Kawai, HI, you have made the best of your overall short learning curve. You have the fundamentals of exceptional feel and dynamics already infused into your musical soul. Given the beauty of this performance, I sure look forward to hearing your next.

26 — Forum ID: Riddler; Real name: Ed — A Flower Is A Lovesome Thing — Strayhorn[/b]

Ed, you sure have solved the enigmatic puzzle of how to elicit the secret to playing beautiful and haunting jazz. Man, this is a haunting song in your capable hands. Your arrangement is spellbinding. I want to listen all afternoon, but I must move on, darn! Silky smooth.

27 — LaValse — Etude Op 2 — Scriabin[/b]

LaValse, I’ve determined to take a different tack and learn some pop songs, but with this magnificent performance of yours, you make me doubt my senses. I truly admire you for admiring this most difficult composer to the extent of evoking his beautiful nuances and having the technical skill and excellent touch to make the whole piece so hauntingly beautiful. You have a gift for expressing Scriabin as well or better than anyone else I’ve heard. Memorable excellence.

28 — greywullf — Nocturne in A minor Op. 10 No. 1 — Rachmaninoff[/b]

Greywullf, to move from one exceptional performance to another is a distinct delight. Though I am less familiar with Rachmaninoff than Scriabin, I don’t know a heck of a lot about either. I do know when a performer plays well because it touches my musical soul. Your beautiful music is now soothing that place within me. The touch of your singing fingers is so relaxing…so soothing. Excellent.

29 — John Frank — The Sound of Music — Rogers/Hammerstein[/b]

John Frank, your performance brings back wonderful memories of the great Julie Andrews singing this and other beautiful songs from the movie of your title. It’s sad that grand musicals for the most part have faded into the past. It’s so nice to be reminded in a lovely way of such beautiful innocence from a bygone era.

30 — Euphonatrix — March (from "Music for Children", op. 65, no. 10) — Prokofiev[/b]

Euphonatrix, your adroit observation about the “subversive harmonic undercurrents” within this gem may tear at the order of the march, but your excellent touch and dynamics gives this piece a childlike sweetness recognizable in many of Prokofiev’s works in my memory. My mind’s eye sees a small group of six-year-olds stomping their playful way around a piano placed in a grassy park. Much fun!

I'm having a heck of a time getting to the last of my reviews.

Lisztener... I had to do a double check at first to make sure it was you. I didn't see any thing about the Moonlight sonata... That was very cool and very well played.

Liszt addict... Good God... that was amazing! I'm sure you are seeing/hearing all sorts of problems but frankly, on my end that sounded almost professional!!!! Fantastic job!!

Mel, damn, that was good! You played with such confidence. How have i missed this guy, And smack in the middle of the romantics too. Did you make any mistakes? and that ending!!!! Wow.

SH... I think you have way toooo much fun. Butcher? I think not. Sweet piece!

Dennis, I kept trying to play your piece and it would play the first measure and then quit! I really wanted to hear it. I'll try again tomorrow.

Peyton, Here is the box.net link. I wonder why it won't play for you?

Fourth post of comments,

31 — Eighty8 — My Foolish Heart — Young[/b]

Eighty8, the pop standards occupy a special place for me. They are quite nostalgic, but above all, they contain melodies that are haunting and riveting for someone who heard them frequently at an earlier time. Very beautiful rendition of this beauty by you. Thank you for the walk down memory lane.

32 — Pevawi — The Rose — Unknown[/b]

Pevawi, This has not been around as long as the previous pop song, but it has reached the pop standard classification, in my opinion. This beauty is another that it’s hard to leave and move on. Fond memories abound here, too, and your play makes the memories more vivid. Very nice.

33 — DragonPianoPlayer — Prelude No 8 in C# Minor — Vandall[/b]

DragonPianoPlayer, I’ve never heard this piece before, nor am I familiar with the composer. It sounds “New age” or perhaps from an Anime entry. Regardless, it is well done with good dynamics that emphasize the harmony over the dissident chords that accompany it. Thank you for the listening pleasure.

34 — mlr1899 — Fugue in C minor — J S Bach[/b]

mlr1899, thanks to beautiful performances such as this one of yours, I am learning to appreciate the discipline necessary to make the playing of Bach immediately recognizable and worthy of the great contributor to music literature of his era. You make your Samick sound like a harpsichord. Beautiful play.

35 xcal — Arabesque op. 18 — Schumann[/b]

Xcal, The static doesn’t disguise your exceptional talent one iota. This is a very beautiful selection played with fingers that drip emotion into the ear of the listener. Your early studies are paying off quite well at this point. You must favor us again with your wonderful play in future recitals.

36 — Mateusz "Mati" Papiernik — Nocturne in C# minor Op. posth. — Chopin[/b]

Mati, you are too humble and too critical of your execution. This is beautiful. There are multiple thousands of players, I’m included, who would envy your beautiful tone quality and technical skills that make this an excellent performance.

37 — Rosanna — Shores of Tomorrow (translated from Chinese) — Koo Ga-Fei/Yee Dat[/b]

Rosanna, your talent and emotions really show vividly in this improv based upon this composition. This is a beautiful work that you have chosen to grace us with in this recital. Your method progress is stunning. You couldn’t have chosen better to highlight your beautiful play. Bravo!

38 — mahlzeit — Oh, My Love — Lennon[/b]

Mahlzeit, you are exceptionally talented with improv skills. You have the fundamentals learned that make your every song a pleasant listening experience. The pleasure you take from creating is clearly evident in the beauty you convert to the keyboard. You are an inspiration to many. Beautiful performance that I envy.

39 — Seaside_Lee — Bewitched, Bothered & Bewildered — Rodgers and Hart[/b]

Lee, you are becoming as familiar as a pair of comfortable old slippers. I mean that in the most flattering way because your distinctive style is such a pleasure to hear. You give the old pop standards a beautiful dose of the Seaside_Lee magic that is just beautiful, as always.

40 — Rob Masters — Apologise (piano cover) — One Republic[/b]

Rob, you have done an excellent job of ironing out any kinks. I sure don’t hear anything that detracts from your expressive performance. This music is unfamiliar to me, but I truly enjoy your performance and your talent. I hope you return for future recitals. Very nice.

Mati, toucanjunky, Monica K., Keith W., ted.stanion, TX-Dennis, jotur, ddh, epf, Manndrew, xcal, Rosanna, csci, bluekeys, Peyton, Babs, Kawai, HI, billyshears66, polostrings, Riddler & Lisztener:

Thanks for your kind comments on my recital piece "The Sound of Music". They were encourageing and much appreciated .

Just by a quick and rough estimate I calculate that only about half those who submitted recital pieces have posted detailed reviews/comments here in this thread on the recital in general. Not that there's anything wrong with this, but is this typical based on previous recitals?

Regards, JF

Ted,

My son is home from college and now plugged into our net...I don't know what he is always downloading but it slows the computers way down so I'm guessing that's what was happening. This morning (he's still asleep ) it works fine. Your piece was just perfect for puttering around the kitchen, making coffee and sitting to watch the sun come up. It is just fantastic!

Hey, many thanks to all that took the time to listen and apologies to those I have missed in my reviews.. I've been working like mad to get ready for a trip and now will be gone for a week (if you are in Chicago this weekend come over to the 57th street art show. I'll be set up there.)

You are all a great group. Have a super week/weekend.

P

25. Kawai, HI - Theme from Fantaisie Impromptu Op. 66[/b] This is such a beautiful theme – it was a pleasure to listen to your sensitive interpretation.

26. Forum ID: Riddler; Real name: Ed - A Flower Is A Lovesome Thing[/b] This is a cool piece – slow, but steady forward with the swing. Enjoyed it a lot.

27. LaValse - Etude Op 2[/b] I haven’t yet tried to play any Scriabin compositions, but you are going to convince me with your recital submissions. This was beautifully played and you brought out the various melodies nicely. Thanks for the link to the sheet music – late at night eh?

28. greywullf - Nocturne in A minor Op. 10 No. 1[/b] Here is another going on my ‘to learn one day’ pile. Beautiful, sensitive playing of a gorgeous piece.

29. JohnFrank - The Sound of Music[/b] I enjoyed listening to this classic – great job. Another one to sing along with.

30. Euphonatrix - March (from "Music for Children", op. 65, no. 10)[/b] I can see why you keep this in your repertoire – very playful with effective accents and nice articulation – some very interesting harmonies. Fun to listen to.

31. Eighty8 - My Foolish Heart[/b] I’m enjoying the jazz tunes in this recital. This was great – the melody sang out nicely.

32. Pevawi - The Rose[/b] You set the mood nicely right from the start. Musical playing of a lovely classic.

33. DragonPianoPlayer - Prelude No 8 in C# Minor[/b] Enjoyed your playing of this prelude – very nice dynamics.

34. mlr1899 - Fugue in C minor[/b] That was great – nice articulation and you brought the voices out effectively. Do you play the prelude as well? This piece is coming up next for me.

35. xcal - Arabesque op. 18[/b] Beautiful playing of an amazing piece – I didn’t know it, and appreciate the introduction. Hope you’ll post more music next recital.

36. Mateusz "Mati" Papiernik - Nocturne in C# minor Op. posth. (Lento con gran espressione)[/b] Very sensitively and beautifully played. You have a nice feel for Chopin.

37. Rosanna - Shores of Tomorrow (translated from Chinese)[/b] Rosanna, you have put together a stunning arrangement. The mood is overwhelmingly sad. Beautifully played. My daughter is now trying to find sheet music.

38. mahlzeit - Oh, My Love[/b] What freedom to be able to play by ear – I’m almost ready to give it a try. Didn’t know this was a Lennon tune either – enjoyed your version very much.

39. Seaside_Lee - Bewitched, Bothered & Bewildered[/b] Nice laid back, sultry feel. This was an interesting, full sounding arrangement – I enjoyed listening.

40. Rob Masters - Apologise (piano cover)[/b] I enjoyed your performance – nice flourishes.

First, thanks to all who worked behind the scenes to make such an event possible.

Second, thanks to everyone who submitted. This really is an inspirational and talented bunch, and I learned some great new music.

My favorite piece award goes to Manndrew's rendition of The Long and Winding Road. At heart I'm a Pop/Rock guy and this was really nice.

01. dannylux/Mel - Etude de Valse, Op.83[/b]
Great Kickoff. That rocks.

02. LisztAddict - Liebestraum No 3[/b]
Absolutely Beautiful.

03. Lisztener - Night and Day[/b]
Nice job.

04. Triryche (Rich) - Departure[/b]
Nice dynamics.

05. Orez Eno - Dark Eyes[/b]
Nice job on your first submission.

06. Peyton - Nocturne in C# Minor Post.[/b]
You guys are going to inspire me to try some Chopin. Very nice.

07. Mr Super-Hunky - Comptine d'un autre ete l'apres[/b]
Amazing. I really look forward to creations from the S-H Method. I think Yann and Bruce would be happy with it.

08. Paul Cast - Sonatina in G - Moderato + Romanze[/b]
Very enjoyable.

09. Ted Stanion - Notturno, Op. 54, No. 4[/b]
Didn't think it was too slow at all. Nicely done.

10. Kawaigirl1 - Late Night[/b]
Thanks for hanging out with us mere mortals here in ABF. Beautiful.

11. JeanieA - Hallelujah[/b]
Love this tune and your rendition. Adding it to my future list.

12. polostrings - Mr. Ng's news[/b]
Impressive shot at composing.

13. The Schubertian - Haydn Sonata #59, Mov't 2[/b]
Good job.

14. TrueBeginner - Couleur Tendresse ( Color of Tenderness ? )[/b]
Wow. Great Playing for only 3 months.

15. Angelojf - Over the Rainbow[/b]
I never get tired of hearing OTR renditions. Nice job.

16. Serge88 - Yesterday[/b]
Very soothing. Good job.

17. rustyfingers - Star Wars (Main Title)[/b]
Very enjoyable.

18. piano_deb (Deborah) - Für Elise (easy piano)[/b]
Good job

19. Undone (Jim) - Plaisir D'Amour[/b]
Good job. Looking forward to tackling this one soon in Alfred 2 as well.

20. Copper - Part of Your World[/b]
Brought a smile to my face, since I have a young daughter who loves Ariel.

21. epf - Rondino (Little Rondo)[/b]
Catchy tune. Well done.

22. Bluekeys - Le Onde[/b]
Another well done Einaudi piece.

23. TX-Dennis (Dennis Turner) - The Nearness of You[/b]
Very soothing. Well done

24. rocky - Serenade[/b]
Well played.

25. Kawai, HI - Theme from Fantaisie Impromptu Op. 66[/b]
Nicely done, especially for such a short time back.

26. Forum ID: Riddler; Real name: Ed - A Flower Is A Lovesome Thing[/b]
That was a fun piece. Thanks!

27. LaValse - Etude Op 2[/b]
Great touch. Nicely done.

28. greywullf - Nocturne in A minor Op. 10 No. 1[/b]
Very cool. Well done.

29. JohnFrank - The Sound of Music[/b]
Nice job.

30. Euphonatrix - March (from "Music for Children", op. 65, no. 10)[/b]
Sounds like you go the dynamics down just right for a march. Well done.

31. Eighty8 - My Foolish Heart[/b]
Well done.

32. Pevawi - The Rose[/b]
Thought you did a good job keeping tempo. Well done.

33. DragonPianoPlayer - Prelude No 8 in C# Minor[/b] (to do)

34. mlr1899 - Fugue in C minor[/b]
Was that the dog's collar in the background? :-) Nice tempo.

35. xcal - Arabesque op. 18[/b]
Very nice. Think I'll add to my "to do" list,

36. Mateusz "Mati" Papiernik - Nocturne in C# minor Op. posth. (Lento con gran espressione)[/b]
Well done.

37. Rosanna - Shores of Tomorrow (translated from Chinese)[/b]
Well done. Playing like this has me convinced of PM's merits!

38. mahlzeit - Oh, My Love[/b]
Solid performance as usual. TIme to start pushing yourself. I think you are holding back on us.

39. Seaside_Lee - Bewitched, Bothered & Bewildered[/b]
Back to Back to Back PM'ers..Sounds like a conspiracy. Beautifully played.

40. Rob Masters - Apologise (piano cover)[/b]
Well done. Liked it better than original

41. Euan Morrison - Keyboard Concerto no.5 (2nd mov.)[/b]
Enjoyed it very much.

42. Monica K. - Everyday[/b]
Awesome work. Another "I hope to play someday"

43. b528nf7 - Blackbird[/b]
Sing AND play at the same time. Nicely done.

44. Babs - Deep Heaven[/b]
Very Peaceful.

45. toucanjunky - Prelude No.4[/b]
Nice job

46. piano_tony - Scarborogh Fair[/b]
Nice job. Good tempo.

47. GregF - Alexander's Ragtime Band[/b] (to do)

48. Manndrew - The Long and Winding Road[/b]
This was really nice. one of my favorites from this recital.

49. Frotz / Brian - Nocturne in E Minor[/b]
Well done.

50. I'm playing it better at home now - Sandy - Waltz Ab Opus 69 No. 1[/b]
Sounded goood to me. Nice job.

51. YD - Chopin Valse Op.64 No.2[/b]
Impressive. Very nice.

52. Keith W - The Entertainer[/b]
Pretty good shot at a tough tune for a relative newbie. Keep working on the tempo.

53. Yamaha G3 & P-80/ Mike White - Spanish Dance No. 2[/b]
Nice. Good dynamics.

54. Hisalone (Joel) - Maple Leaf Rag[/b]
Thoroughly enjoyed. Will add this one to the "someday" list

55. Ovaltine - Claire de Lune[/b]
well done

56. Mistaya (Caroline) - Sonata in C Major[/b]
well done

57. ddh - Daniel - Greensleeves[/b]
very soothing

58. Mark... - Amazing Grace[/b]
Conquered the triplets. Good job.

59. AdagioM (Michele) - Granados Medley[/b] (to do)

60. jotur - Cathy Turner - It Had To Be You[/b]
I enjoyed this very much.

61. Rockpeter - Album for the Young Op.68, No. 1[/b]
Too short :-). I wanted more. Good job.

62. billyshears66 - Knocking On Heaven's Door[/b]
Way to take your music knowledge and apply it to a new instrument. Well done for only a month at it.

63. cscl - Andantino or Ivan Sings[/b]
Pretty good for under the time crunch.

GregF, Mistaya, Lisztener, billyshears66, polostrings (and others, to whom I wrote in private before) - thanks for your very kind comments on my performance! I am grateful for all of you who listened to all these wonderful performances, not only mine, in this Recital. I have thoroughly enjoyed the pleasure of participating. It's wonderful initiative here


M.

Hi Mistaya,
I hate to be a wet blanket, but it's going to be really tough to find the sheet music, except perhaps in some big Chinatown, and even then it's tricky. The composer goes by the English name Joseph Koo, but I doubt it's used in publications. The name of the song is my translation and doesn't have a "legit" English name. In Asia, the sheet music most likely exists, but I won't know how to find it online!

Well guys, this about sums it up (I started from the bottom and worked my way up) . I enjoyed listening to everyones pieces. Since I actually like all kinds of music , I enjoyed listening to various types of music at this recital. I want to thank you for your kind comments on my recital piece. I was deeply touched.

01. dannylux/Mel - Etude de Valse, Op.83 What a fabulous way to start off a recital! Your playing is so exceptional! You play like a master!

02. LisztAddict - Liebestraum No 3 I just love this song and you did an excellent job in maintaining the control in both your left and right hand! Great hand work!

03. Lisztener - Night and Day I love the way this song begins with the Moonlight Sonata, your smooth transitions from the classical theme into a sounding jazzy theme were superb ! The various flavors of this song were very well displayed!

04. Triryche (Rich) - Departure I enjoy listening to those Japanese game tunes and I thought you did a lovely job on this song!

05. Orez Eno - Dark Eyes Congrats on your first submission! The mysterious tone of this song was very well conveyed in your playing.

06. Peyton - Nocturne in C# Minor Post. What an incredibly breathtaking nocturne this is! Your trills were breathtaking and beautiful!

07. Mr Super-Hunky - Comptine d'un autre ete l'apres The SH way is always a special treat! Love to have your improv skills!

08. Paul Cast - Sonatina in G - Moderato + Romanze I thought your tone in this piece was wonderful! Good control in the hands too.

09. Ted Stanion - Notturno, Op. 54, No. 4
I enjoyed listening to this piece and and I thought you did a splendid job with those trills!

10. Kawaigirl1 - Late Night Not familiar with this artist but I enjoyed being introduced to this music with your as always fabulous playing!

11. JeanieA - HallelujahWhat a great classic! I though you did a very good job with this song and good job keeping that melody intact!

12. polostrings - Mr. Ng's news What a lovely tribute , your playing is very well reflective!

13. The Schubertian - Haydn Sonata #59, Mov't 2 Beautiful and incredibly smooth you did a really nice job on some of those finger techniques.

14. TrueBeginner - Couleur Tendresse ( Color of Tenderness ? Beautiful and romantic and it was very well conveyed in the way you played it!

15. Angelojf - Over the Rainbow I never tire of hearing this great classic ! I especially enjoyed listening to the way you played it !

Thanks to all of you who were so generous in their response to "The Long and Winding Road." A special thank you to GregF for your most appreciated comments. There is so much in the Beatles songbook worthy of admiration. They never cease to amaze me. This recital was a terrific experience for me and has re-energized my commitment to the piano.

Fifth post of comments,

41 — Euan Morrison — Keyboard Concerto no.5 (2nd mov.) — J.S. Bach[/b]

Euan, Bach purists may knock your pedal, but not me. This is up to your beautiful quality standards. Given the beauty of the piece, I well understand why you fell in love with it. I don’t hear a nerve in your body rattle. All I can hear is a haunting melody that sings a most beautiful song just the way you played it.

42 — Monica K. — Everyday — Comando[/b]

Monica, I haven’t gone to YouTube, yet. It’s much more fun just listening to your expanding body of work and your magnificent play. Wow! I love the dynamics you display in this piece! The bass is great, your touch is musical and powerful on a gorgeous sounding piano. Monica, this is your best ever…all of yours are your best ever. Beautiful play.

43 — b528nf7 — Blackbird — Lennon/McCartney[/b]

b528nf7, this is an excellent performance by a most talented musician. Your singing is good, but I prefer the piano to the voice…no offense intended…I just enjoy your creative sound and movement over the keyboard whether carrying the melody or accompanying it. Super!

44 — Babs — Deep Heaven — Nevue[/b]

Babs, this is a very beautiful and touching performance from you. The sadness contained within the music is deepened by your loss, yet it must give you an immense feeling of pride to have the memory of your mother serve to inspire you as you play this beautiful tribute to her. Thank you for sharing her smile with us.

45 — toucanjunky — Prelude No.4 — Chopin[/b]

Toucanjunky, I love this. Oooh…so smooth. This is in my repertoire, but after hearing you play, I need to polish mine in spots to try to give it the gemstone effect you have achieved here. I can let this repeat all night and not tire of it. Your dynamics and technique are wonderful. Please come back, OK?

46 — piano_tony — Scarborogh Fair — Alfred All in One (Book One)[/b]

piano_tony, I’m listening over and over to find your lack of smoothness, but I can’t find it anywhere. Is it possible that since you are the performer you may be a little more critical than your audience may? I think so. This is a beautifully played piece, but you’ll progress even farther from here. Someday you’ll come back and be able to hear how far. Nice play.

47 — GregF — Alexander's Ragtime Band — Berlin[/b]

GregF, you have me tapping my feet with this perky Berlin song. Second pass I was really stomping around the room. :—) You’re doing great, Greg! You really have a nice touch that highlights the melody over the bass. Keep up the good work and keep coming back to the recitals. Good play!

48 — Manndrew — The Long and Winding Road — Lennon and McCartney[/b]

Manndrew, I can tell that the liberties you took with the sheets only enhanced their lovely notes. You have developed a wonderful style that is chock full of talent and touch. No doubt, your family and friends are fortunate to have had you with them along the road. Thank you for inviting us along with you as you share your gift with us. My life is happier because of you.

49 — Frotz / Brian — Nocturne in E Minor — Chopin[/b]

Brian, I know, from past experience and what I’ve been told, that this performance is probably twice as good as you perceive it to be. Since all we have to do is listen, then we get to enjoy your lovely performance while you stew over every note. :—) Seriously, I can hear the hard hours of practice in your beautiful trills and your overall musicality. Beautiful performance.

50 — Sandy — Waltz Ab Opus 69 No. 1 — Chopin[/b]

Sandy, I hope you don’t mind me not using your full ID since it may change again before I post this comment. :—) Hurray, for you playing this on your acoustic! I agree, it sounds so much more Chopinesque this way. Your performance, too, is much easier on our ears than on your own for the same reason I gave Brian. We listen to musical qualities you evoke and let you suffer over a missed note or two. Your performance is a delight to me because I enjoy the spirit of the performer, not just the performance. Beautiful.

Sixth and final post of comments,

51 — YD — Chopin Valse Op.64 No.2 — Chopin[/b]

Yuri, your background training and virtuosic skills have seemingly eliminated any effects of the hand injury you suffered some twelve years ago. It had to have been difficult to regain your skills, but this beautiful rendering is quite impressive. Congratulations on making the effort, and thank you for sharing your marvelous gift with us in this beautiful waltz.

52 — Keith W — The Entertainer — Joplin[/b]

Keith, I think your machine is acting up. This is a lively piece and quite an undertaking for the amount of study under your fingers. I promise you I only hear the one-half you wish of everything coming from your keyboard. Very entertaining.

53 — Yamaha G3 & P-80/ Mike White — Spanish Dance No. 2 — Granados[/b]

Mike, recording is a PITA, but you came through with flying colors, as usual. This is another beautiful Spanish dance that you enliven with your dancing fingers. It is such a pleasure to hear you play. Enticing as this sounds to try, I’m staying away. It’s beyond my level of play, but it sure is a beauty coming from you.

54 — Hisalone (Joel) — Maple Leaf Rag — Joplin[/b]

Hisalone, If I could stay in my chair long enough, maybe I could say a nice word or two and move on to the next entry. This is a lot of fun for feet-movin’. You have done an excellent job of captivating me with this tempo. If you hadn’t told me it was slower than usual, I’d have never known. Nice play!

55 — Ovaltine — Claire de Lune — Debussy[/b]

Ovaltine, What a pleasant shock to relax suddenly under the spell of this venerable beauty by Debussy. As a boy, I remember hearing this played on the first grand piano I ever saw. I was awestruck! From that point on, I determined to learn it. I still haven’t…probably never will. :-( I love to hear it played, though, just as you are now playing it for me. It has every bit of beauty I remember about it. Super!

56 — Mistaya (Caroline) — Sonata in C Major — Scarlatti[/b]

Caroline, your play is a joy to hear. Neither your slips nor nerves are evident in this beautiful performance of a piece that sounds very difficult to play. Oooh…you sound so majestic with this offering. I’m sure this would make kings and princes invite you to the palace for a command performance. Your dynamics and technique are exquisite. Beautiful, as usual.

57 — ddh – Daniel — Greensleeves — King Henry VIII arranged by Davis Nevue[/b]

Daniel, this song, indeed, serves a dual purpose. Your version fits the mold you intend. This is a wonderfully played and expressed love song under your fingers and highlights the romantic melody. Your tempo is excellent. You make your keyboard sing.

58 — Mark... — Amazing Grace — john newton, J Carrell & Clayton Arr by P.M. & L [/b]

Mark, your sound is fine through the buds I’m using, and it must feel good to be moving on to another level of study. This is a sweet standard that you play sweetly. Good luck with your next book; be sure to enter something from it in the next recital.

59 — AdagioM (Michele) — Granados Medley — Granados[/b]

Michele, fortunately, you have taken time from your knitting to bring another of your quality works to us in the form of beauty that we can hear. I just reviewed all your previous entries. Each of them has a purity of expression and tenderness that has become your trademark. Thank you for another gem.

60 — jotur - Cathy Turner — It Had To Be You — Kahn/Jones[/b]

Cathy, it just had to be you with all your natural talent for this type of song. If I could read like you, I’d play all the time. Sounds like you must come pretty close to all the time. There were places that almost sound Ragtime mixed in with your Jazz, but no matter, everything you play is delightful.

61 — Rockpeter — Album for the Young Op.68, No. 1 — Shumann[/b]

Rockpeter, you took the proper amount of time necessary to make this an enjoyable performance. Your dynamics and technique are ingrained, now, it appears, for the best. Your love for children is audible in the way you express Shumann. Beautiful.

62 — billyshears66 — Knocking On Heaven's Door — Dylan[/b]

Billyshears, your guitar experience is a tremendous help in your transition to the piano. I’m not familiar with the song, yet I can hear the guitar influence on it. You play with beautiful expression. I’m eager to hear your piano skills develop in future recitals. Nice play!

63 — cscl — Andantino or Ivan Sings — Khatchaturian[/b]

Cscl, you play with such tenderness and melody that it’s very easy to glide beyond your glitches. This is a splendid piece. I truly enjoy emotionally evocative music and this fills the bill, nicely. Wow, we are lucky that you decided to make it into the recital. Just a little polishing with this piece and you’ll knock ‘em over in your June recital. Very nice.


My heartfelt thanks go to Monica and Mahlzeit and all others who had a part in making this a wonderful recital to enter, but especially to the magnificent players who displayed a great deal of their souls for all of us to ponder and enjoy. You’ve all made this another resounding success.[/b]

I equally offer my heartfelt thanks to those of you with kind words for my effort. I take them deeply to heart.

Sincerely,

Lisztener

WOW! I'm blown away by the talent here!

Monika, I loved your choice - Carly Comando, great dynamics and love the tone-range used. Had to check out the composer and the video. Great stuff!

Excellent playing btw!

Thanks, kenny! It's a tremendously fun piece to play and rivals Hanon in terms of hand independence.

By the way, Carly came out with a CD recently of her compositions, including "Everyday." You can order it off her Myspace page, I believe. Each CD comes with a personalized cover and hand-written note from Carly. "Everyday" is the best piece on it, imo, but it's still a very nice collection, and I've listened to it several times.