Speaking Soundly: An In-Depth Conversation with Evgeny Kissin

Episode Title: Evgeny Kissin
Host: David Krause, Principal Trumpet of the Metropolitan Opera
Release Date: May 13, 2025

1. Introduction

In this compelling episode of Speaking Soundly, host David Krause engages in a profound dialogue with the esteemed Grammy Award-winning pianist, Evgeny Kissin. The conversation delves into Kissin's illustrious career, his creative processes, personal journey, and his deep-rooted connection to music.

2. Early Beginnings and Musical Family

Evgeny Kissin hails from a highly musical Moscow household. His mother and sister were both pianists, while his father, an engineer by profession, played the accordion. Kissin's extraordinary musical abilities surfaced remarkably early:

• Early Talent: At just 11 months old, Kissin was already singing Bach. By the age of two, he was climbing onto the piano keyboard, improvising melodies.

  "I have no such strategy for during a performance. I developed one for before my performances in order for them to go well, namely to prepare well and to just concentrate on the music totally, even before I go on stage."
  — Evgeny Kissin, [03:08]

Despite these prodigious talents, Kissin does not recall these early years. His family, particularly his mother, did not initially anticipate a musical career for him. While his sister pursued formal piano studies at a prestigious Moscow music school, Kissin attended a different special music school that offered a balanced curriculum in both music and regular academic subjects. This environment fostered his musical growth while maintaining a healthier, less competitive atmosphere.

3. First Carnegie Hall Performances and Audience Impact

Kissin's relationship with Carnegie Hall is storied and significant. His U.S. debut recital there became legendary, showcasing not only his technical prowess but also his profound connection with audiences.

• Memorable Performances: In [00:58], Kissin recounts playing up to 13 encores during his Bologna performance, culminating in the fire department's intervention to close the municipal building.

  "In the end, the audience made me play as many as 13 encores until at half past midnight, firemen walked onto the stage and said, this is a municipal building. We have to close."
  — Evgeny Kissin, [00:58]

These experiences solidified his reputation as a performer who deeply resonates with his audience, transcending mere applause to create unforgettable musical moments.

4. Approach to Performance and Practice

Kissin emphasizes a disciplined approach to performance, focusing on preparation and concentration rather than relying on specific strategies during concerts.

• Performance Strategy: Kissin avoids superstitious rituals, instead prioritizing thorough preparation and mental focus.

  "I have no such strategy for during a performance. I developed one for before my performances in order for them to go well, namely to prepare well and to just concentrate on the music totally, even before I go on stage."
  — Evgeny Kissin, [03:08]

• Practice Habits: Initially, Kissin did not enjoy practicing, but as his career progressed, he recognized the necessity of diligent practice to achieve excellence.

  "When I was a child, I did not like practicing at all. And during the first years of my music studies, I was able to achieve things without practicing much. Only later came a point when it became obvious to me that in order to play well, I had to practice a lot."
  — Evgeny Kissin, [08:54]

5. Connection to Russian Music and Beyond

Growing up immersed in Russian music, Kissin maintains a special affinity for it, although his love for music transcends cultural and geographical boundaries.

• Cultural Influence: Russian composers hold a special place in his heart, stemming from his upbringing. However, he acknowledges the universal nature of music, appreciating its ability to bridge diverse cultures.

  "Yes, Russian music has always been very close to my heart. And I assume that the fact that I grew up with that music was at least one of the important reasons for that."
  — Evgeny Kissin, [09:37]

  "Music is the most international of all arts, even though lots of classical music contains national elements. And I find it wonderful because I believe in both."
  — Evgeny Kissin, [09:37]

6. Composing and Writing Poetry

While predominantly known for his performances, Kissin also explores composing and writing poetry, albeit as hobbies rather than professional pursuits.

• Creative Process: Kissin discusses his sporadic engagement with composition, highlighting the challenges and personal reflections it brings.

  "Playing music is my profession. Writing music as well as poetry and prose are my hobbies. Therefore, I devote almost all of my time to playing piano."
  — Evgeny Kissin, [11:18]

• Personal Compositions: He shares insights into his compositional ventures, including his string quartet and a piano trio inspired by the war in Ukraine.

  "When I wrote it, I sent it to the members of the Koppelmann Quartet, who were good friends... I listened to a recording of the very last piece I wrote. It is a piano trio about the current war in Ukraine."
  — Evgeny Kissin, [11:18]

Despite his modesty regarding his compositional skills, Kissin finds personal fulfillment in creating music, acknowledging its complexity and the high standards set by classical masters.

7. Personal Reflections and Memoir

Kissin's deep-seated connection to music is evident in his personal reflections and memoir. He shares poignant insights about his identity and the role of music in his life.

• Life’s Purpose: As a child, Kissin inscribed his gravestone with the words, "Here lies Evgeny Kissin, a servant of music," reflecting his early and enduring commitment to his art.

  "I'm very happy that one cannot explain it because I personally would like such things as love to retain their mystery."
  — Evgeny Kissin, [16:26]

  "One cannot be an artist without love for art, and therefore I believe that I'm a very lucky person. My life is devoted to what I love."
  — Evgeny Kissin, [16:26]

His memoir reveals a lifelong dedication to music, portraying it as both his identity and his greatest joy.

8. Conclusion

This episode of Speaking Soundly offers a rich and intimate portrait of Evgeny Kissin, exploring his journey from a musically gifted child in Moscow to an internationally acclaimed pianist. Through heartfelt discussions, Kissin shares his philosophies on music, performance, and creativity, providing listeners with valuable insights into the life of one of today's most revered classical musicians.

Notable Quotes:

• "In the end, the audience made me play as many as 13 encores until at half past midnight, firemen walked onto the stage and said, this is a municipal building. We have to close."
  — Evgeny Kissin ([00:58])

• "I have no such strategy for during a performance. I developed one for before my performances in order for them to go well, namely to prepare well and to just concentrate on the music totally, even before I go on stage."
  — Evgeny Kissin ([03:08])

• "Yes, Russian music has always been very close to my heart. And I assume that the fact that I grew up with that music was at least one of the important reasons for that."
  — Evgeny Kissin ([09:37])

• "Playing music is my profession. Writing music as well as poetry and prose are my hobbies. Therefore, I devote almost all of my time to playing piano."
  — Evgeny Kissin ([11:18])

• "One cannot be an artist without love for art, and therefore I believe that I'm a very lucky person. My life is devoted to what I love."
  — Evgeny Kissin ([16:26])

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the essence of the conversation between David Krause and Evgeny Kissin, highlighting the pianist's remarkable journey, his philosophical approach to music, and his continuous quest for artistic fulfillment.