World-Famous Pianist Offers Master Class for TAC Students

In addition to his Friday night concert on October 3, renowned Russian pianist Ilya Yakushev offered an exciting opportunity for two fortunate student pianists: a master class the prior day.

In a master class, student musicians play their choice pieces for an expert, who, in return, assesses and critiques their performances, then provides feedback and advice on ways to improve. On Thursday, Mr. Yakushev met with juniors Zoe Brown and Joey Esser in St. Cecelia Hall’s Fritz B. Burns Auditorium.

Fellow students trickled into the auditorium to hear their classmates perform and enjoy the musical dialogue. Zoe was first on the stage with a rendition of Claude Debussy’s enchanting “Clair de lune.” Mr. Yakushev stood by and listened intently. Afterward, he walked Zoe back, step-by-step, through her piece, providing thoughtful advice in real-time. Joey followed with an exciting, rapidly paced Chopin piece, and Mr. Yakushev praised his audacity before offering his critique. Throughout the lessons, the expert laughed and joked with the students to ease their nerves on the stage.

Although the particular feedback was specific to each student, Mr. Yakushev’s most recurring slice of advice was “take it slow — don’t rush!” He emphasized the importance of not simply reading and playing the notes on the page, but also allowing oneself to feel and be moved by the music.