Am I Old/Mature Enough To Perform ... ?

Beethoven's piano Sonata No. 32 in C minor, Op. 111. His very last sonata. Especially its majestic second movement (Arietta: Adagio molto semplice e cantabile) ... Typical performances take about 20 minutes ! Requires great musical flexibility, concentration and focus, physical strength, physical and musical endurance, and emotional and spiritual depth. And, a seasoned performer with life experience behind them.

Technically speaking, many young pianists could pull its notes through at a very young age. And unfortunately, they do it. Technically. However not emotionally, not spiritually and not musically. Which is a problem in today's pianism, even though widely (and even intentionally) overlooked, as it seems that technical mastery and flashy show-like appearances/performances is what the musical industry favours the most right now. The goal - a model looking pianist, scarcely dressed, who performs the most technically difficult pieces written for piano at as young age as possible ! Do I need to say more ?

However some pianists, resist the trend. They resists the push of the music industry that wants to make show-men and show-women out of us. Sometimes at the great cost too. For some of us the love of MUSIC always comes first. And then second, third and - last. No matter what the cost !

So I ask myself: Am I old enough and emotionally/spiritually mature enough to perform this masterpiece ? My whole musical being is begging me to do it. I simply can't resist its call, so it must be the time. And under guidance of such heavenly maestra as Maria João Pires, and having her as continuous inspiration, motivation and encouragement, I think I stand a chance. It will take some time though ............

Listen to Maria João Pires' legendary performance here (Maria waited to be 70 years old to perform it !):

What a masterpiece and what a masterpiece interpretation. Maria poured her whole soul and life experience into it. Her trills (pure perfection), her dynamic range, her crystalline tone, her array of expressions - from tender through playful to robust and majestic and beyond - is simply unsurpassed in the pianism today.

What a performance ! What an inspiration !

© Alternative Approach to Music: Inspiring - Healing - Empowering, Xenia Elizabeth Zilli