“He is so versatile, he will mow your lawn,” hails this hilarious concert announcement, created by the very talented pianist Jonathan Levin, whom I just had to meet after seeing this. Regrettably, I could not make it to his “very important concert,” but I checked out his playing via internet and definitely think this Manhattan School of Music alumnus warrants more attention than he claims to get!
Even though he has so far escaped discovery by record labels and management, he has – beyond a fine pianism – something quite viable to offer: humility and a self-effacing humor that keeps him down to earth, sporting an utmost unaffected air while steadfastly pursuing his dreams: And that is playing the piano, composing, teaching… and approaching its third season, he produces a piano festival in his hometown Clayton, in North Carolina.
To help his festival gain momentum he just finished a documentary which describes Jonathan’s vision and the festival’s goal: to make classical music approachable and accessible to all audiences.
“I think most people, regardless whether they are regular concert goers or not, approach ‘classical’ performances with something akin to apprehension,” explains Jonathan.” There’s a feeling that they may not understand or they may feel uncomfortably out of place. My goal is to relieve their fears a bit and let them feel they are ‘in on it’.”
Each of the performances of the two week long piano fest have specific themes and incorporate a narrative by the performers, giving insight about the composer’s life and his work. They also share their own feelings about performing these works, engaging the audience and enhancing the entire experience.
“There is no pressure to know a lot about the music in advance…and the audience can discover a new favorite piece or composer along the way. Live performance is a vital part of this art form …the shared experience can be nothing short of magical.”
About classical music's place in his heart and his performances he says: Classical music is for everyone! Through its infinite subtleties, it demands our full attention and speaks to us about ourselves in the profound ways which only music can. Through my concerts I seek to provide a format where those new to classical music can discover something remarkable they didn’t know they would enjoy and where seasoned concertgoers can perhaps listen with fresh ears. My passion is to create integrated, themed concerts with dynamic commentary, which can become compelling emotional or spiritual experiences… and may even be fun too! My goal is to take “high art” off of the top shelf and to share a wide variety of classical music - from the great classics to music of our own time - without gimmick, but in the most accessible way to as many people as possible.
For more information about the Clayton Piano Festival and Jonathan Levin http://www.claytonpianofestival.org watch the documentary