Well, sadly, the seven of us were not meant to be. Two pianists dropped out, with concerns and disagreements about music and logistics and other apparently unreconcilable differences. A third pianist also became over-committed and regrettably had to bow out for now. Nagging questions remain for us- should we invite two or three more pianists to be a band of six, or seven, or will we be stronger as TWO two- piano teams banding together as one? For now, this seems like the best option- because we can perform as four pianists on just two pianos, or on three or four pianos, and we can feature guest pianists and guest duo-piano teams to join us for any of our "special event" concerts. Plus, people will likely hear more of us individually now, since we are not seven but just four. I think our new nickname should be "The Fab Four!"
While we were truly sad to have our colleagues leave before "the party" started, our initial disappointment has given way to our relief to be working with totally committed, and highly experienced piano-ensemble members. The remaining four of us- myself, Irina, Svetlana and Elena, are truly dedicated to the art of multi-piano ensemble work, and each of us has been doing this seriously for most of our lives. That will bode well for our success as an all-women piano band of the 21st century! Men need not apply!
While we were truly sad to have our colleagues leave before "the party" started, our initial disappointment has given way to our relief to be working with totally committed, and highly experienced piano-ensemble members. The remaining four of us- myself, Irina, Svetlana and Elena, are truly dedicated to the art of multi-piano ensemble work, and each of us has been doing this seriously for most of our lives. That will bode well for our success as an all-women piano band of the 21st century! Men need not apply!