Grace in Recital: Behind the Music
In Deep Thought, as I Play and Listen to the Serene Melody Line from Consolation No. 3 by Franz Liszt
As a student-pianist, I study and perform music from a carefully curated syllabus developed by musicologists who know well the most valuable repertoire for this stage in my academic & budding professional careers. Nearly every piece I elect to play begins with a question—What story does it tell?
As I prepare for my upcoming solo recital on Friday, June 7, I find myself thinking not just about the music, but the journey each work invites us to take: from the often-tortured background story of the brilliant composer, to the historical context that inspired its writing, the sheer beauty of the melody line, and every detail in between—from the minute to the most complex. While some are well-loved works by the most recognizable names in music—Bach, Beethoven, Chopin—others are from lesser-known or newer voices that have shaped me in more personal ways. From grand works of bold and dramatic expression to the deeply sacred and purely poetic pieces that are a mere whisper, each selection inspires in me the curiosity to explore, whether the composer, particular time in history or overall influence in music, or the simple joy of the grace notes.
This is all to say that this upcoming performance is special!
As the first full solo program that I will share with my local community, I offer it freely, but with great purpose. So your presence, encouragement, and support help make it possible for me to keep growing as a lover of music, a student of this beautiful art-form, a performer, and an aspiring musicologist. This recital is also the launch of something I hope will become a lifelong part of my work: inviting listeners not only to hear, but to understand.
Each guest will receive what I hope to introduce as a regular feature to all of my recitals, both as a solo artist and future pedagogue— something I’ve curated to share the character and context of the works on the program. In essence, an invitation to not only hear the music, but also to understand. I hope that every guest will come with their own curiosities, prepared to also ask themselves, “What story does this piece tell?” For I truly believe that every artistic contribution that was made then, matters still today.
This recital program will follow a thoughtful historical arc—beginning with the intricate elegance of the Baroque, moving through the expressive poetry of the Classical and Romantic eras, and landing in the colorful landscape of 20th-century and sacred works.
One of the most meaningful selections in this journey is Consolation No. 3 by Franz Liszt. While not the first piece on the program, it offers a turning point—a moment of deep serenity and introspection. Its gentle lyricism and prayer-like quality make it feel like a whispered reflection amid the drama and intensity of the surrounding works. Though Liszt is often known for his bold virtuosity, this piece reveals his spiritual depth and sensitivity. In many ways, it reminds me that the emotional heart of a recital doesn’t always sit at the beginning or the end—but sometimes quietly blooms in the middle.
I hope to see you there!
🎶 With love + gratitude,
Grace
🎹 Saturday, June 7 · 6:00 PM
Don Tatzin Community Hall · Lafayette Library
For full details + to RSVP, click here.
Can’t make it in person? You can still support my musical journey here.
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