Introduction

Summer Performing Arts with Juilliard: Piano Class 2026

Introduction to our Ensemble Concert on July 11, 2026:

Good Morning!

I hope you all had a restful sleep, and what a wonderful way to meet—first thing, together, to hear our piano ensembles today.

For those of you who attended last night’s solo concert, I wish I could have shared a little window into what was happening backstage:There was pacing and meditation and that sort of individual preparation. But also quiet fist bumps from pianist to pianist. Shared heat packets to keep hands warm. Hugging. And hushed pep talks and words of encouragement.

I thought to myself: wouldn’t it be so wonderful if world leaders had this kind of interaction before their meetings? What if they, too, had to learn a duet together and what would they learn?

They would discover that learning your own part and knowing what you want and what your purpose is of course absolutely necessary, but it is not enough, it is simply not enough. The real work begins when you’re together.

What if one person wants to play fast and the other slow? What do you do? Can you try it slow and try it fast and see what works? Can you set aside your own ego and be open-minded to hear other ideas—and even accept that perhaps someone else has a better idea in service of the music and the ensemble? Maybe you could compromise somewhere in the middle.

What if a member of the group is not prepared or a little unreliable? Could you lend that person a hand, give them some grace by taking it a little easier on them until they can catch up? Can you believe in them, do your part, and help them feel like they can do it? Can you grow to be a team?

I actually believe the world would be a better place if our leaders came together and had this experience, this experience we’ve been practicing everyday. As wonderful as the music you are about to hear is, we truly appreciate the hard work they’ve put into working together to get us to today.

We have loved watching our pianists grow and bond over their pieces. Each pianist has contributed to our program in their own unique way. We will miss them, and we hope you all keep in touch with us.