The Keyboard Chronicles

Michael Stephen Brown, Pianist and Composer


Listen Later

Michael Stephen Brown is a versatile American pianist and composer best known for his solo performances, rich chamber music collaborations, and unique original works. Bridging the gap between world-class piano playing and storytelling, he has recently released his debut album of all-original music, Twelve Blocks. Showcasing his distinct creative voice, the deeply personal project features a series of musical portraits, emotional detours, and true stories brought to life alongside an impressive roster of guest performers. We chat with Michael on this and get some great insights into his approach to music and composition.

To listen / watch:

  1. Audio-only: click on the play button in the audio player above, or:
  2. Video: watch the embedded video below or check it and previous episodes out on our YouTube Channel
  3. Discussion topics covered during the show (links will open in new tab):  

    Michael’s past year

    Michaels’ album – Twelve Blocks 

    The process of seeking or receiving commissions for musical performances and/or compositions

    The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center

    Michael’s musical upbringing

    Attending Juilliard 

    Jerome Lowenthal

    Samuel Adler

    Ursula Oppens

    Ursula Oppens and Jerome Lowenthal perform Michael’s piece Twelve Blocks, with poetry

    Composing for one piano, four hands and four albums

    Composing for one hand only

    Breakup Etude for the Right Hand Alone

    The Yaddo retreat

    The Carnival of Endangered Wonders

    Lake Alan

    Piano from Pas de trois – Michael Stephen Brown

    Composing with pencil and paper versus computer

    Michael’s piano Octavia

    A discussion on mental health, music and the arts

    Creatives Care

    Planning and rehearsing a repertoire before a show or tour

    Michael’s upcoming creative works, including release of his own piano concerto

    Desert Island Discs: Stravinsky: The Rite of Spring – Leonard Bernstein and London Symphony Orchestra, Live Performances 1934-1956 Vol. 1 – Art Tatum, Bach: The Goldberg Variations – Glenn Gould, Ravel: Gaspard de la nuit – Arturo Benedetti Michelangeli

    Key links:

    Become a member of our YouTube channel and receive extra content

    Buy some keyboard related merchandise

    Drop us a line via the website, Facebook, Instagram, Reddit, Threads, BlueSky, TikTok or LinkedIn

    Complete our audience survey to help us improve!

    Check out our podcast guest playlist on Spotify to get a taste of each guest’s creations.

    The post Michael Stephen Brown, Pianist and Composer appeared first on The Keyboard Chronicles.

    ...more
    View all episodesView all episodes
    Download on the App Store

    The Keyboard ChroniclesBy David Holloway

    • 4.8
    • 4.8
    • 4.8
    • 4.8
    • 4.8

    4.8

    13 ratings