I am fortunate to have recently reconnected with Mrs. A., both in person (I visited her in 2004 and even played her a few of my old pieces on her harpsichord) and spoke with her this past summer, after I had put a down payment on my first piano.  She explained to me that she had recently, at the age of 91(?!) retired from teaching.  I sent her flowers to congratulate her and she returned my gratitude with another phone call.

Some students thought her too demanding or strict, but I found her encouraging and challenging.  I have no other basis or foundation for my elementary understanding of classical music and music theory.  She trained my ears and my fingers and it wouldn’t be until later in life that I realized how well-prepared she had made me for a life in music.  I took lessons from Mrs. A. for almost eight years but quit as a freshman in high school.  I did go back and take a few more lessons from her when preparing for my piano-level entry test into music school and thanks to her guidance I passed out of my requirement.  It is also her training that allowed me to do as well as I did in each of my music theory classes in college.

Here is a nice interview with Mrs. A. where she talks about her life as a piano student and teacher.  “Becky” (SIC!) Indenbaum, my cousin, who’s mother recommended Mrs. A. to my mom for me, is mentioned in it.

Living Music: Maryan Abramsohn

I’m glad I had a chance to express my gratitude before she left but I can never say it enough: Thanks, Mrs. Abramsohn!  Love, Seth Hitsky

Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Have a look.