Keyboard Conversations Series Sponsors:
Dr. Cynthia Parlato, Dr. Douglas Hurd, and Dr. Lorna W. Grant
Learn the stories behind the patriotic compositions of Gershwin, Bernstein, Copland and more as internationally renowned pianist Jeffrey Siegel. Siegel discusses the influences that affected the creation of the music before playing each piece in its entirety. Discover the inspiration behind Gershwin’s "Rhapsody in Blue" in the composer's rarely heard solo piano version, Scott Joplin's "The Maple Leaf Rag," the unpublished "Meditation on a Wedding" by Leonard Bernstein, and more.
Siegel offers captivating remarks and a virtuoso performance of piano masterpieces followed by an interactive Q&A with the audience. New listeners discover an informal, entertaining and instantly accessible introduction to the magnificent piano repertoire. Seasoned music lovers enjoy an enriched, more focused listening experience.
"Jeffrey Siegel has everything: massive technique, musical sensitivity and character, wide tonal resources, immense reserves of power, and the ability to communicate." – Los Angeles Times
"Pianistic eloquence with a special gift for commentary." – The Washington Post
"His performances were expressive and full of passion…This is an artist who means every note he plays." – The New York Times
