Chuck Kavalovsky gave four amateurs an unforgetable lesson on the Schumann Konzertstueck last spring. Bob Moffett, Drew Halberstadt, Chad Musser, and I were to play with the Lexington Band soon after Chuck, Danny Katzen, Jay Wadenpfuhl, and Dick Mackey (the BSO horn section) played the same work with the BSO. Bob, a former student of Chuck's at NEC, arranged the lesson.
We met Chuck at the stage door of Symphony Hall and followed him down into the basement. Four chairs and stands were already set up, and Chuck noted that the BSO section had just finished practicing the Schumann -- the chairs might still be warm!
We didn't play perfectly, but the lesson was a joy. With energy, enthusiasm, and concern for detail, Chuck gave us two hours of concentrated, inspiring coaching. The time flew by as we became absorbed in the work.
Chuck didn't seem particularly impressed with the technical flourishes that occasionally came off, but rather concentrated on musical expression. What impressed me most was his interest in capturing the composer's intent in all passages, from the most dazzling to the simplest. Indeed, we paid more attention to long flowing phrases than to the bravura runs. We worked on tempo, ensemble, phrasing, and musical style.
I was struck with the way Chuck, with all the enthusiasm of one leading the piece for the first time, would say, "I've got an idea! Let's try..." whatever. We would try it, and he'd say, "Yeah, I think I'll try that with our group." He seemed to enjoy the chance to analyze as a listener rather than a performer, and eager to find ways to make his own interpretation more effective.
Artists like Chuck possess a passion for their art, discipline in their own study, and willingness to share their knowledge. Bob, Chad, Drew, and I were inspired by our brief encounter with this passion. Years from now, when we reflect back on our Schumann experience, it won't be the concert in Lexington but the lesson with Chuck that we'll remember. Chuck, thanks for sharing your gift with us and for enriching our lives as you did!
Peter teaches exercise physiology and horn at Gordon College in Wenham MA. Bob, Drew, and Chad are engineers. Contact Peter at 978-388-0976 or email