Camas resident Natalie Burton was one of four students who participated in Portland Piano International’s “Up Close with the Masters,” last month.
The master was Vladimir Feltsman, one of the best known concert pianists in the world. Feltsman was in the area to play sold-out recitals for Portland Piano International. His style of music encompasses everything from Baroque to 21st-century composers. He has appeared with all the major American orchestras and at musical stages and festivals worldwide.
“Up Close with the Masters” are work sessions to promote music education. They are offered to the public free by Portland Piano International and provide an opportunity to see and hear a “master” teach and the student learn.
“I have been very interested in learning how to best interpret Bach’s music on the modern piano,” Burton said. “When I realized a world-class performer of Bach’s music was giving a masterclass in Portland, I jumped at the opportunity to participate. I was extremely excited when I was told I could play for him.”
During the class, she played “The Fugue” by Johann Sebastian Bach on a Model D Steinway piano.