Something special this week – a recital by Issac Stern, Pinchas Zuckerman and Leonard Rose – part of the Tonight At Carnegie Hall series, broadcast on October 9, 1980 and simulcast with NPR.
Interspersed between works, is a documentary on this legendary Trio and their method of working together as a unit – the demands of Chamber Music and how it forms the background for all musicians – the whole notion of thinking as one cohesive unit and the importance Chamber Music has played throughout history. It cuts back and forth between Stern, Rose and Zuckerman rehearsing – overhears discussions (and disagreements) over tempi and phrasing. Definitely insights into ensemble playing and how it’s the same, no matter if you’re a group of amateurs who get together for the fun of it or well-seasoned professionals, legends in their own rights, disagreeing.
It’s only an hour – the music alone is worth the price of admission, but the documentary and the discussions are priceless.
As someone who loves the process, these have been some of my favorite broadcasts because the essence of performance and that level of telepathy which is crucial and essential are looked at with critical, unflinching eyes. You get a whole new level of appreciation when the stage is empty, save for the three, four or five musicians, watching each other for the countdown.
Historic concert and memorable get-together – perfect for an Anti-Road Rage Wednesday.
