“The notes I handle no better than many pianists. But the pauses between the notes—ah, that is where the art resides.” – Arthur Schnabel, in Chicago Daily News, June 11, 1958.
We got a new piano a few weeks ago. It is a beautiful 1920′s Kanabe, and it is really a stunning instrument. My husband has played his whole life, and he is now teaching my kids to play. They are all taking it very seriously, and I love hearing the music in my house.
Last night, we went to Shabbat services, and as they lit the Shabbat candles, the words in the prayer-book compared Shabbat to the pauses between the notes as a pianist plays. I’ve always loved the quote, and it prompted me to look it up.
Arthur Schnabel, the great Austrian pianist said these words that resonate in so many ways. Those pauses between the notes is where beauty resides, and I am happy to tell of you that as crazy and hectic as my home gets, there are many many pauses between the notes happening all of the time…especially musically.
Today, during Shabbat, I am celebrating the pauses. My song of the day is Beethoven’s “Moonlight Sonata” performed by Arthur Schnabel and often heard in my home, as well. Click HERE to listen to this infamous piece, and may you all appreciate your own pauses today. They certainly are lovely.
