Dear all,
Yesterday was rather amazing: publication day included lots of wonderful messages, the first reviews (nice ones - phew!) and the release of Wigmore Hall's video in which I introduce the book and do some readings and the wonderful pianist Mishka Rushdie Momen (pictured) plays Beethoven's Sonata in F major, Op. 10 No. 2. This was made possible by the extremely kind invitation of the Hall's director, John Gilhooly.
The presentation was specially devised for this occasion. It is entirely different from the concerts that are [hopefully] coming up next month - and it worked out extremely well. Mishka was eager to play this particular sonata, which she's been programming in recitals this autumn, and I found that a selection of readings from the early part of the book would match it to perfection, not least because the Op. 10s are mentioned in the crucial pages soon after Pepi and Tesi have got to know Beethoven.
The Wigmore's clever technician has made the two of us appear and vanish as if by magic. And if I do look a little bit sombre - well, it was my first visit to my beloved Wigmore Hall since lockdown and it was both strange and slightly disconcerting to be addressing that marvellous auditorium that was sitting empty in front of me. I'm now investing in some brighter lipstick - and smile technology if I can find some. What a treat it was, nevertheless, to have the chance to work with Mishka, who seemed cool as the proverbial cucumber despite these strange cicumstances and sounds simply spectacular. I can't thank her, John, the Wigmore Hall's fabulous team and Unbound enough.
Please find the video attached, and I hope you enjoy it.
Many thanks again for all your support!
Love and best wishes,
Jessica