I had the unexpected and great pleasure to be the page turner for Francoise in this Doctoral Recital Preview Concert. She was playing a Sauter Concert Grand piano. The first half was all Italian pieces, and the second half was all Russian. My impression was that the order of the songs created a momentum which built and built, leaving me literally thrilled at the finish. The exquisite voice of Raluca, absolutely perfect and fully professional to my ear, was simply wonderful to listen to; I was wishing at the end that it was only half way through. And being right next to the piano gave me the best seat in the house to watch and feel the expertise of Francoise following the singing like a perfect shadow following along, as though they were completely one, even though the tempo was completely dictated and ever changing by Raluca. This gave the songs so much feeling and sensitivity. The piano music itself became more and more complex and powerful, ending with the final songs raging up and down the piano, amazing me with how accompanist music itself can be so fantastic, and yet it remained just right next to Raluca’s singing. She completely matched the power of this incredible piano step for step, and in the end I was shaking and left with tears in my eyes. Thank you, Raluca and Francoise, very much.

Master pianist and performer, George Fiore, conducted a free master class On March 7, 2009.  Starting the session with a performance of Bach WTC Prelude in C then a corresponding Chopin Prelude in C, Master Fiore then listened to three aspiring artists.  G. Fiore stressed the importance of four-octave scale practicing as an appropriate warm up prior to playing a composition.  Fiore, although very encouraging to each student performing, pointed either stylistic or technical suggestions to improve performance.   All students were well prepared and performed excellently, applying Master Fiore’s suggestions quickly and beautifully.  This was indeed a great occasion for parents, students and teachers alike.  George Fiore invited all students to come back to forthcoming master-class.  These master classes, in addition to the Sauter Recitals, are held as a public service and free of charge.  All are welcome to participate or attend.