Israeli pianist Alon Goldstein gave solo recitals at Weatherwatch Farm on three consecutive days. Because of safety concerns during the pandemic, attendance was limited to only 12 masked guests at each performance. It was truly amazing to have an extremely intimate musical encounter with this powerful artist who has performed in major concert halls around the globe. The programs included J. S. Bach English Suite No. 2 in A minor; Beethoven Sonata in E flat major Op. 27, No. 1 and Sonata in C sharp minor Op.27, No. 2 (Moonlight); Debussy Estampes; Florence Price Sonata in E minor (2nd movement); Bernstein “Masque” from Symphony No. 2; Chopin Scherzo Nos. 1 and 2; Chopin Waltzes Op. 64. For encores Alon played some Scarlatti Keyboard Sonatas that are featured on his latest CD.
Alon was accompanied by his teenage son Matan, who was able to keep up with his online schoolwork during the 10-day residency. Alon spent his days practicing intensively and developing new repertoire. In the afternoons they explored the Adirondacks with scenic drives to Lake George and Lake Placid; hikes around Point au Roche, Silver Lake, and Weatherwatch Farm; and a paddle down the Saranac River. Alon Goldstein is scheduled to return next season to perform Mozart/Lachner Piano Concerti with string quartet and double bass. We hope that by then we will be able to gather again safely in our lovely, spacious venue, the historic Saranac Methodist Church on Route 3.
