Journey of an American Pianist

About this book

"World famous concert pianist Grant Johannesen completed this memoir shortly before his sudden death in 2005. Born in Salt Lake City, Johannesen gives an account of his childhood and education in Utah, his early career and study in Europe and New York, his growing reputation as a pianist, and his worldwide performances. He writes also of his early marriage to Helen Taylor, who died suddenly in an auto accident, his later marriage to the renowned cellist Zara Nelsova, his teaching and judging piano competitions; and his thoughts late in life for the benefit of younger generations of musicians." "Journey of an American Pianist presents an extensive examination of Johannesen's artistic commitment and the importance of certain kinds of training and experience, framed in large part as advice to the young pianist seeking a concert career. At the same time it portrays the everyday experience of a virtuoso pianist, far away from the glare and glamour of the concert stage."--Jacket.