Abstract

KULISH, Mariya. Piano pedagogy and activity of A. Siloti in the context of music education in the USA. Revista Convergências [online]. 2023, vol.16, n.32, pp.95-113.  Epub Dec 31, 2023. ISSN 2184-0180.  https://doi.org/10.53681/c1514225187514391s.32.222.

This study investigates the piano pedagogy and performance career of Russian pianist and pedagogue Alexander Siloti during his tenure at the Juilliard School in New York City from 1925-1942. Through analysis of archival materials and scholarly perspectives, the study illuminates Siloti's pivotal role in shaping piano education and transmitting Russian musical traditions in the United States. The findings showcase how Siloti adapted his concert repertoire and teaching techniques to the American cultural context while upholding principles derived from his studies with Liszt and the Russian piano school. Siloti mentored and influenced major American musical talents, including composer Marc Blitzstein and pianists Eugene Istomin and Benning Dexter. His editions of Bach, Liszt and Rachmaninoff made classical and Russian piano compositions more accessible. In conclusion, Siloti emerges as a vital figure who cemented the artistic lineage between 19th century Russian and European piano schools and early 20th century American piano performance and instruction. His perseverance in exile preserved piano traditions and impacted the trajectory of music education in the United States.

Keywords : post-October emigration; Juilliard music school; piano pedagogy; performance practice; music history.

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