Lambert Orkis & Mstislav Rostropovich: A Legendary Partnership | MH Podcast Orkis Interview Part 2

Welcome back to the Mada & Hugh Piano Duo Podcast. In this episode, we continue our engaging interview with the illustrious collaborative pianist and professor Lambert Orkis from Temple University. This is the second part of a three-part series where we delve into Professor Orkis's experiences post-graduation from the Curtis Institute of Music, his collaboration with the legendary cellist Mstislav Rostropovich, and his relentless pursuit of musical excellence.

The Path After Curtis

Upon graduating from the Curtis Institute of Music, Lambert Orkis faced an existential crisis. Like many young musicians, he wondered what the future held. He shared how his family, not worldly wise about musical careers, couldn't provide much guidance. However, an enlightening experience at Curtis directed his path. A counterpoint and theory teacher, Matthew Colucci, introduced him to the exquisite playing of Marion Filar, a pianist known for his Chopin interpretations. This revelation led Lambert to pursue further studies at Temple University, where he eventually became a significant part of the institution.

Temple University and Early Professional Experiences

Lambert Orkis’s initial foray into professional music came when Dr. David Stone, the founder of the College of Music at Temple, offered him an assistantship to play for recitals. This role was both challenging and rewarding, as he had to perform for 47 people in his first year. Through this experience, Lambert honed his ensemble skills, working with various musicians and learning diverse repertoires, from brass and tuba pieces to contemporary music.

One memorable ensemble experience was with Marian Van Erck’s Franklin Concerts, which provided young musicians opportunities to perform throughout Pennsylvania. These performances were pivotal in building Lambert’s confidence and repertoire. His dedication and excellence in these performances did not go unnoticed, eventually attracting the attention of renowned musicians and organizations.

Meeting Mstislav Rostropovich

A significant turning point in Lambert’s career was his introduction to Mstislav Rostropovich, a legendary cellist and conductor. Lambert’s first encounter with Rostropovich happened during a masterclass at the Kennedy Center. Despite the intimidating environment, Lambert’s passion and preparedness impressed Rostropovich, leading to an immediate bond between the two.

Rostropovich’s influence on Lambert’s career was profound. He invited Lambert to join the National Symphony Orchestra on a tour in Asia, marking the beginning of a long and fruitful collaboration. Playing complex pieces like Prokofiev's Second Symphony and Shostakovich’s Fifth Symphony under Rostropovich’s baton was both challenging and exhilarating for Lambert.

The Rigors and Rewards of Collaboration

Lambert shared fascinating anecdotes about the intensity and demands of working with Rostropovich. From performing impromptu recitals for high-profile audiences, including President Reagan, to adapting to Rostropovich’s unpredictable rehearsal schedules, Lambert’s resilience and adaptability were constantly tested. Despite these challenges, the partnership flourished for over eleven years, with the duo performing extensively across Asia, South America, and North America.

The Essence of Musical Partnership

The deep musical connection between Lambert and Rostropovich was evident in their performances. They spent significant time together, rehearsing and refining their art, which translated into captivating performances that resonated with audiences worldwide. Their collaboration was a testament to the power of dedication, preparation, and mutual respect in achieving artistic excellence.

Conclusion

Lambert Orkis’s journey post-Curtis and his experiences with Mstislav Rostropovich offer invaluable lessons for aspiring musicians. His story is a powerful reminder of the importance of perseverance, preparedness, and seizing opportunities with courage and confidence. Stay tuned for the final part of our interview, where we delve deeper into Lambert’s illustrious career and his insights into the world of classical music.

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