San Francisco Classical Voice has published an extensive new feature on Carol Rosenberger‘s memoir, To Play Again:
“A new memoir, To Play Again (She Writes Press), tells the story of Rosenberger’s remarkable battle to retrain her body. Overcoming all medical, music industry and social doubt—her own fears and doubts notwithstanding — Rosenberger returned to the concert soloist circuit at age 30. During the last four decades she has established herself as a gifted, sensitive pianist and an inspirational teacher as a faculty member at the University of Southern California and in workshops held nationwide. Under the Delos label, Rosenberger has made over 30 records. In 2007, she became the director of the independent record label following the death of Delos founder Amelia Haygood.
Haygood was one of several people whose deep, committed relationships with Rosenberger extended far beyond the usual boundaries of friendship. In her memoir, she writes of their first encounter. While playing Schubert at the home of Carolyn Fisher, an acquaintance who offered Rosenberger and other pianists regular opportunity to practice in a large space with a fine instrument, Haygood appeared at the door. “On her head she wore a “baggie,” as large plastic storage bags were called then, and we all laughed at the unusual headgear. It had begun to rain, and the plastic bag had been the most serviceable “rain hat” to be found in Amelia’s car.”
Moments later, she learned that Haygood, a practicing psychologist, had stood outside in the rain, not wanting to knock because it would have interrupted the Schubert sonata Rosenberger was practicing. Their shared passion for music and instant compatibility formed a sturdy foundation for lifelong friendship. Haygood’s perceptive professional counsel during Rosenberger’s post-polio rehabilitation is interwoven with personal recollections of their unique bond throughout the memoir.”
You must be logged in to post a comment.