Abram Chasins 'Speaking of Pianists' - Review and Takeaways

Some of my favourite takeaways from Abram Chasins' classic book "Speaking of Pianists." I especially enjoyed the very first chapter on his lessons with Josef Hofmann, but the whole book had lots of fun anecdotes and stories for those interested in "piano/pianist lore." A nice, light summer read with some valuable musical insights to ponder and apply in our own practice practicing and performing (or teaching).

2:20 Hofmann's critique of Chasins' playing at their first lesson/encounter (advice for students)
4:30 The principle of motion and rest
5:45 Hofmann's teaching style
8:10 Hofmann's views on musical interpretation
9:13 Creating excitement during performance
11:00 Rachmaninoff to Horowitz: "If you don't walk, your fingers won't run."
11:41 Shaping phrases according to melodic lines, not bar lines
12:50 Closing thoughts about the book overall

[Radiatoron]

"Speaking of Pianists" is a book I've heard referenced many times over many years, so I really appreciate your sharing your thoughts on it. Based on what you related on Chasins' experiences
with Josef Hofmann, I'm sure I would enjoy the book! I can well imagine how nervous Chasins must have been when he first sat down to play for Hofmann! I "inwardly withered" when you quoted Hofmann's dissection of Chasins' playing, imagining being in Chasin's shoes. What you quoted gives an impression of Hofmann as being a "doctor of sound." The musical doctor who knew what was needed!
Horowitz took Rachmaninoff's advice to heart when it came to walking. I read that Horowitz would take long walks in New York City as a part of his routine. (Along with having Dover sole as a part of his meal, for what that's worth.)
It's also interesting that Horowitz, for one, created tremendous excitement in his performances, and yet he himself looked impassive and was without "visual theater" of any sort. The "voltage" came out in the music though, needless to say. Though some might say that the contrast between how Horowitz sounded and how he looked made his performances all the more exciting--the contrast between the incredible sound world he created and his lack of facial expressions, theatrical arm flinging, neck craning, posing, etc.
I really enjoyed your review, and I hope that you will do some more over time!

[Mathieu_Poirier_Piano]

2:20 Hofmann's critique of Chasins' playing at their first lesson/encounter (advice for students)
4:30 The principle of motion and rest
5:45 Hofmann's teaching style
8:10 Hofmann's views on musical interpretation
9:13 Creating excitement during performance
11:00 Rachmaninoff to Horowitz: "If you don't walk, your fingers won't run."
11:41 Shaping phrases according to melodic lines, not bar lines
12:50 Closing thoughts about the book overall