Pianist Richard Goode has been recognized as one of the most artistic and congenial chamber musicians. The winner of many honors, among them the Avery Fisher Prize and a Grammy Award, he has collaborated in concert and in the recording studio with Richard Stoltzman, Michael Tree, Paula Robison and numerous chamber ensembles to great acclaim.
Now focused on sharing his expertise as a soloist, he appears in a recital at Strathmore on Sunday, part of the Washington Performing Arts Society’s subscription series. The program opens with Bach’s “Partita No. 5” and includes Mozart’s “Rondo in A minor,” the “7 Fantasien” by Brahms and Debussy’s “Twelve Preludes, Book II.” Each work ranks among his favorites.
Goode’s new emphasis on solo performances is a welcome departure for his followers who regard him as one of the world’s most significant pianists. Early in his career, he became associated with the Marlboro Music School and Festival in Vermont and directed for many years by his mentor, Rudolf Serkin. Goode delights in making up for lost time by touring as a solo artist. Now, he limits his collaborations to his wife, Marcia, a violinist, and vocalist Dawn Upshaw, with whom he has recorded and appeared in concert halls and on TV.
“When I play, I want the audience to experience the music and feel the emotional intensity intended by the composer,” he says. “I’m simply a medium for the music. When I’m on stage doing what I’m supposed to do, the idea is to disappear, figuratively, and let the music transmit its message without my getting in the way.”
IF YOU GO…
WPAS presents pianist Richard Goode in concert
When: 7 p.m. Sunday
Venue: The Music Center at Strathmore,5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda
Tickets: $25 to $65 at 202-785-WPAS (9727) or online at www.wpas.org
More: Master class at Levine School’s Music Center at Strathmore at 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday. Free and open to the public; reservations required.
