Robert Finley plays Liszt Sonata part 3

Recorded in Boston during Liszt Centennial, 1986 www.robertfinleypianist.com

Category:

Music

Tags:

• Liszt
• Sonata
• Finley

[cziffra1980]

Very good again. I prefer more holding back in the sound before the 2nd subject returns, but the B major chordal section is as well shaped as I've ever heard it. Your style of sound and voicing reminds me of Jorge Bolet.

[rsfpiano]

I studied in Jorge Bolet's masterclass in Edinburgh Scotland in 1980 for one week (Liszt and Faure pieces and Rachmaninoff 3rd concerto), and also in Washington DC in 1986 (Benediction to God in Solitude by Liszt). He was one of the best and most inspiring teachers I ever had. He really could make the piano sing. It's a shame he isn't around any longer.

[cziffra1980]

Must have been great. I like the way you know when to drop the sound but manage to avoid doing it obviously. I have a film of him on doing a masterclass on the Rachmaninov 3rd. He really understood how to sound loud without really playing loud. I like the quote about playing the accompaniment softer instead of the melody louder. I wish more modern players understood this approach like you.

[rsfpiano]

There were 4 other students in the masterclass in Scotland. He told us some amusing stories. His demonstration at the keyboard was out of this world. At the end of the week all took him to dinner in his hotel and bought him some silver cufflinks and a pen engraved with his initials. By the way, I enjoyed listening to your selections very much. You play extremely well. I used to live and work in the London, and went to many concerts at the South Bank and the Royal Albert Hall.

[kasyapa]

bravo. you bring a distinct individuality and voice to this piece. i'd certainly put your interpretation above many popular ones - such as vladimir feltsman, just to pick a name. i'll explore your other videos with interest.

[crimbo912]

He doesn't play the last part in prestissimo.

[cziffra1980]

Thanks. I'm certainly not at your level, but I've spent a lot of time trying to analyse the greats and how they make their sound. I'd like to think that some of that comes out in my sound. I can hear all the tricks of sound in your playing, which is very rare among most pros today. Must have been incredible to have a whole week between just 5 of you.