Praised as an ingenious virtuoso, renowned pianist Russell Sherman will entice audiences at 3 p.m. Sept. 15 at the renovated Cook Recital Hall, which is located inside the Music Building.
Sherman began his journey as a celebrated pianist at age 6, and by age 11, he was studying with Eduard Steuermann. Born and raised in New York, he made his debut at Town Hall at age 15. Sherman continued his education at Columbia University, graduating at age 19 with a degree in humanities.
He has since been an acclaimed soloist at major orchestras across the country, including the New York Philharmonic, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Boston Symphony, Chicago Symphony and Philadelphia Orchestra. Sherman is currently a Distinguished Artist-in-Residence at the New England Conservatory.
A prolific recording artist, Sherman has recorded the complete Beethoven concertos and sonatas, making him the first American pianist to have done so. Reviewer Bernard Jacobson called the Beethoven sonatas project “a set for the ages” in Fanfare magazine.
With reviews from the New York Times stating that he is “one of the best pianists in this or any other country,” Sherman has taught many notable pianists, including MSU College of Music faculty members Deborah Moriarty and Minsoo Sohn.
“Professor Sherman is a visionary,” Sohn said. “To me, he is the very best pianist. He has always inspired me in so many ways. He has devoted much of his life to mentoring other pianists, and he has made an immeasurable impact on my growth as a musician.”
Sherman’s concert program includes the following pieces:
- Schoenberg – “Drei Klavierstücke, Op. 11”
- Debussy – “Estampes”
- “Sonata No. 4 in F-sharp Major, Op. 30”
- Chopin – “24 Preludes, Op. 28”
Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for seniors (age 60 and older) and $5 for students and anyone younger than 18. Tickets may be purchased online or at the door.