Most of these “favorites” posts have focused on major compositions. Today we change the pace and look at five different works in the chronological order that they were part of my life – the last of the five is a larger work but provides an appropriate way to conclude this portion of our journey.

The first one is the first musical selection that ever provided my some monetary compensation – $10.00 as I recall – the prize offered for a talent show at the Butler County Fair in Kansas during the years I was in junior high – too long ago for the idea of a middle school to even exist.

The selection is “Kitten On The Keys” by Edward Elzear “Zez” Confrey (1895–1971) performed by the composer and captured on Edison Re-Creation 50898-L (8226), recorded in New York City on September 21st in 1921.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TBxRRUj1bcA

Second is the “Toccata in E-flat Minor by Aram Khachaturian (1903-1978).  This performance, recorded in 2008, is by Sonya Kahn.

This was the final selection on the recital that I played toward the end of my senior year in high school.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cBkz2A1z8xM

Next is the work that concluded my junior recital in undergraduate school.

The “Piano Sonata No. 3 in A minor”, Op. 28 (1917), composed by Sergei Prokofiev (1891-1953).  This performance is by Boris Berman.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PGRls_Kjt9I

Of course there is a work by Brahms – the “Intermezzo, Op. 118, No. 2 in A major” – this wonderful recording is by the legendary Arthur Rubenstein (1887-1982).  One interesting bit of trivia – Arthur Rubenstein is the father of John Rubenstein who among many other achievements created the title role of “Pippin” on Broadway.

Every time I have played or heard this beautiful composition I lovingly remember when I was asked to play this at the memorial service for Edwina Parker, my incredible piano teacher beginning when I was in the sixth grade and continuing until I graduated from high school and began my undergraduate studies.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cqBzK5tKFVc

Finally – we turn to a larger work by Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827) – the “Piano Concerto No 3 C minor” – in this performance the pianist is Murray Perahia with the Academy of St. Martin in the Fields under the baton of Sir Neville Marriner.

I was invited to perform this work with the university orchestra during my senior year in undergraduate school.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6rn6IxE9BIs

I hope that you have enjoyed this autobiographical sketch of my early years!