Companion to Podcast Episode 1 of our Four-Hand Piano History Series

When we demonstrated Ernst Wilhelm Wolf's Sonata in G Major and Charles Burney's Sonata in F Major on this week's podcast, we were playing music that was once considered scandalous. Four-hand piano music didn't emerge by accident—it was born from a perfect storm of technological innovation, economic transformation, and social revolution in the 1760s.

Before the mid-18th century, keyboard instruments simply couldn't accommodate two players. Virginals had only 45 keys, harpsichords topped out at about 5 octaves, and the idea of two people sitting close enough to share a keyboard was socially unthinkable. Everything changed when instruments expanded their range and the new pianoforte offered dynamic control that made intimate musical conversations possible.

Ernst Wilhelm Wolf wrote the first four-hand sonatas in Weimar around 1761, though he kept them private for decades. Working under Duchess Anna Amalia, Wolf created these pieces as teaching tools, influenced by the emotional intensity of the Empfindsamkeit ("sensitive style") championed by C.P.E. Bach.

Charles Burney changed everything in 1777 by publishing the first commercial four-hand music. His "Four Sonatas or Duets" filled a market gap he shrewdly recognized, complete with a preface explaining this "unusual practice" to puzzled audiences.

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (age 9) and his sister Nannerl turned four-hand performance into spectacular entertainment during their European tour. Their Sonata K.19d became a marketing sensation, with audiences amazed to see two children playing together, sometimes blindfolded.

Four-hand playing required unprecedented physical proximity between performers—hands crossing, occasional touching, shared breathing. This intimacy was revolutionary in an era of strict social codes. As Stanford scholar Adrian Daub notes, piano four hands created "a safe space in which touching and nearness were permitted or even desired."

The growing middle class embraced four-hand music as affordable home entertainment. Rather than hiring orchestras or purchasing multiple instruments, families could experience sophisticated music through piano duets, democratizing access to high culture.

When we perform these early works today—navigating Wolf's sudden mood changes, appreciating Burney's elegant galant style, or marveling at the Mozart family's collaborative genius—we're continuing a conversation that began when propriety met passion and technology enabled intimacy.

This is just the beginning of our exploration into four-hand piano history. In future episodes, we'll trace how this intimate musical medium evolved through the Romantic era and beyond.

Read the complete story: For the full exploration of how keyboard instruments evolved from Pythagoras's monochord to enable four-hand music, detailed analysis of the economic and social factors that drove this revolution, and in-depth discussion of the musical examples we performed, visit our comprehensive article: The Intimate Revolution: How Four Hands Changed Everything

This is the first episode in our ongoing series exploring the history and development of piano four-hands repertoire.

This summer has been nothing short of extraordinary for the Mada & Hugh Piano Duo, filled with premieres, collaborations, and unforgettable performances across continents. From the grandeur of Vienna to the vibrancy of Wilmington, Delaware, each stop on our journey added a new layer of meaning to our music-making.

A World Premiere in Vienna
Mădălina-Claudia Dănilă began the summer in Vienna with a landmark event: the world premiere of a new piano concerto written especially for her by close friend and collaborator, conductor, cellist, and composer Ovidiu Marinescu. Performed with the Vienna Chamber Orchestra in the historic Konzerthaus, the work was infused with the spirit of Romanian folk music. Though conceived as a concise, three-part “mini-concerto,” Marinescu is already planning to expand it, inspired by the possibilities uncovered in this first performance. For Mădălina, it was a thrilling blend of personal heritage and artistic innovation.

“Three Omens” – A Filmic Collaboration
Hardly back from Vienna, the duo dove into another major project: the release of Three Omens, a new piano work by rising composer Christian Mechem. Commissioned in memory of George Crumb, this piece brought together Mădălina as performer and Hugh as producer, videographer, and director. Recorded on a Bösendorfer 280VC at Cunningham Piano’s Cherry Hill showroom and filmed at Millersville University, the project allowed unprecedented creative freedom. Hugh painstakingly storyboarded each camera angle, creating one of the most visually striking videos the duo has released to date. The video premiered on August 3, setting a new benchmark for future productions.

In Residence at the Summer Piano Institute
Closing out the summer, the duo served as guest artists at the 15th Annual Summer Piano Institute at the Music School of Delaware. Their opening concert introduced students and families to fresh repertoire, including Rachmaninoff’s Morceaux de Quatre Mains, Op. 11, and their own transcription of Suita din Dobrogea, a work rooted in Romanian folk traditions that quickly became a student favorite. Beyond concerts, Mada and Hugh spent the week coaching ensembles, sharing stories of their mentors, and emphasizing the importance of collaboration, mindfulness, and discipline in ensemble playing.

A Summer to Remember
From international premieres to educational residencies, the summer of 2025 was a vivid reminder of music’s power to connect cultures and generations. And with new projects and interviews already lined up for the fall—including features on Crushing Classical and The Piano Pod—the Mada & Hugh Piano Duo are carrying this momentum forward into an exciting new season.

Welcome to a new chapter in the musical travels of the Mada & Hugh Piano Duo! This time, we’re diving into the vibrant sounds of Romania with our latest arrangement: the Suita din Dobrogea (Suite from Dobrogea). Let us take you on a journey through music and culture as we explore the roots and rhythms of this unique region, all captured in a one-of-a-kind four-hand piano performance.

A Love Letter to Romania

Mada, born in Romania, shares a deep connection to her homeland, and Hugh, inspired by his partner, has embraced Romanian culture with enthusiasm. Together, we’ve been fascinated by the rich traditions of Romanian folk music, which have influenced classical composers like Liszt, Brahms, and Enescu. But there’s something particularly special about the Dobrogea region that we couldn’t resist exploring further.

Dobrogea: A Cultural Crossroads

Dobrogea is located in Southeastern Romania, bordered by the Black Sea, Bulgaria, and the Danube River. It’s a land steeped in history, having been touched by Greek, Roman, Ottoman, and Bulgarian influences over the centuries. This cultural melting pot is evident not only in its architecture and history but also in its music.

Mada’s family roots trace back to this region, which makes it especially dear to us. Dobrogea is home to some of the oldest cities in Romania, like Constanța, with its Roman ruins and strategic location as a crossroads of trade. This dynamic cultural exchange has infused Dobrogea's music with an unparalleled diversity and vibrancy.

Unearthing the Dobrogean Suite

The Suita din Dobrogea is a collection of traditional music recorded in the 1970s and later reinterpreted in the 1990s. These pieces, which are improvised rather than written down, capture the essence of Dobrogea’s folk traditions. They feature distinctive instruments like the nai (Romanian pan flute), the dulcimer (also known as țambal), and the violin.

The standout rhythm in these pieces is the Jamparale, a lively traditional dance. Its odd meters and Eastern-inspired improvisations make it both challenging and exciting to adapt for piano. We were captivated by this music’s energy and spirit and decided to create our own four-hand piano arrangement to bring it to a wider audience.

A Unique Four-Hand Arrangement

Transforming the Suita din Dobrogea into a piano duet was both a challenge and a joy. The suite’s rich textures, intricate rhythms, and improvisational essence demanded a deep understanding of the music’s roots. We worked tirelessly to honor the authenticity of the original recordings while giving it our personal touch as pianists.

What makes this music so engaging is its ability to surprise and captivate. The odd rhythms, Eastern tonalities, and interplay between East and West in its melodies speak to the heart of Romanian folk culture. For us, playing this music together is not just a performance; it’s a celebration of Dobrogea’s vibrant legacy.

Why Dobrogea Stands Out

While Romania is a tapestry of diverse regions, Dobrogea stands out for its blend of influences and historical significance. Its music reflects centuries of cultural exchange, from Greek and Roman traditions to Turkish and Balkan sounds. For us, Dobrogea feels like the beating heart of Romania—an energetic, colorful region that continues to inspire.

Join Us on This Journey

We hope you’ll enjoy our four-hand piano arrangement of the Suita din Dobrogea. It’s a tribute to the region’s rich heritage and a celebration of the universal language of music. Whether you’re familiar with Romanian folk traditions or hearing them for the first time, we believe this suite has the power to transport and inspire.

Without further ado, we invite you to experience the sounds of Dobrogea through our unique interpretation. Thank you for joining us on this journey!

In this episode of the Mada & Hugh Piano Duo Podcast, we dive deep into the world of performance anxiety with Dr. Robert Hall, a renowned psychiatrist and former professional trombonist. Learn how to manage and deal with stage fright with practical tips, personal stories, and expert advice. 🎹 Topics Covered: Understanding the biology behind performance anxiety Psychological and social factors affecting musicians Practical tips for managing anxiety, including preparation, beta blockers, and CBT The importance of a balanced lifestyle for mental health Personal insights and experiences from Dr. Hall’s career 🎹 Topics Covered: 0:00 - Introduction by Hugh and Mada 0:34 - Hugh and Mada discuss their personal experiences with performance anxiety 4:10 - Mada’s story of a memorable performance anxiety incident 8:10 - Introducing Dr. Robert Hall 8:39 - Dr. Hall shares his background as a musician and psychiatrist 12:30 - Understanding the universality of performance anxiety 14:43 - The biological basis of performance anxiety 17:18 - The importance of preparation and performance experience 20:54 - Dr. Hall’s personal performance experience with adrenaline management 24:40 - Practical tips for managing performance anxiety in the moment 29:05 - The role of beta blockers in managing performance anxiety 35:30 - Exploring cognitive behavioral therapy for performance anxiety 39:15 - Importance of positive reinforcement and supportive mentors 43:45 - The concept of “permission to fail” and personal anecdotes 50:00 - Lifestyle factors and their impact on performance anxiety 55:47 - Mada’s experience with receiving harsh criticism and using it as motivation 58:15 - Dr. Hall’s journey from music to medicine and his personal challenges 1:00:15 - Closing remarks and future episode tease 🎶 Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned professional, this episode offers valuable strategies to help you perform at your best. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insights on music and mental health! #PerformanceAnxiety #MusicianTips #MentalHealth #MadaAndHugh #DrRobertHall #ClassicalMusic #StageFright #MusicPodcast

Welcome to the Mada & Hugh Piano Duo Podcast, where we dive into the beautiful fusion of Romanian and Korean cultures through music, life, and love. Today, we’re exploring an unusual yet exciting topic: dating tips for Romanians and Koreans. Whether you’re currently dating or married, these tips can help enhance your relationship, drawing from our personal experiences.

Expressiveness and Communication

One of the first things Hugh noticed about Romanian women is their expressiveness and straightforward communication. Romanian culture encourages openness, making it clear what they feel and think. This can be refreshing and, at times, intense, but it's essential for fostering genuine connections. For Hugh, learning to appreciate and reciprocate this directness was key in building a strong relationship with Mada.

Assertiveness and Politeness

Madalina shared that while initial politeness and gentlemanly behavior are appreciated, Romanian women also value assertiveness. Being clear about your preferences and opinions shows confidence and respect, essential traits in Romanian culture. This balance between gentility and assertiveness helps in creating a dynamic and respectful relationship.

Falling in Love with the Culture

One of the significant aspects of dating someone from a different culture is taking an interest in their heritage. Hugh emphasized the importance of immersing oneself in the Romanian culture, whether it's learning the language, appreciating traditional music, or savoring the cuisine. This not only shows respect but also deepens the bond between partners.

The Role of Food

Food plays a vital role in cultural expression. For Mada and Hugh, exploring each other’s culinary traditions has been a delightful journey. Hugh's efforts in cooking Korean dishes and introducing Mada to Korean cuisine helped her appreciate his background. Similarly, Hugh’s love for Romanian food strengthened their connection. Sharing meals and culinary experiences can be a wonderful way to bridge cultural gaps and create lasting memories.

Words of Affection vs. Acts of Service

In Korean culture, actions often speak louder than words. Acts of service, like cooking, cleaning, and other gestures, are common ways to show love and care. Mada highlighted the importance of balancing this with verbal expressions of affection. While actions are crucial, expressing feelings through words can enhance understanding and emotional connection.

Patience

Both Mada and Hugh agree that patience is crucial in any relationship, especially in cross-cultural ones. Understanding and appreciating each other’s backgrounds, habits, and quirks takes time. Patience allows for growth, learning, and mutual respect, paving the way for a harmonious relationship.

Making an Effort

Making an effort to understand and integrate into each other’s cultural backgrounds is essential. This goes beyond general cultural knowledge to understanding the person as an individual. Every person relates differently to their culture, and recognizing this individuality helps in creating a deeper connection.

Humor is a universal language that can bridge many gaps. For Mada and Hugh, humor has played a significant role in their relationship. Whether it's making funny voices, sharing a love for cartoons like Peanuts and Calvin and Hobbes, or simply finding joy in everyday moments, humor helps in keeping the relationship light-hearted and joyful.

Dating someone from a different culture can be an enriching and rewarding experience. For those involved in Romanian-Korean relationships, these tips from Mada and Hugh can help in navigating the beautiful complexities of cross-cultural dating. Embrace the differences, appreciate the similarities, and always keep communication, patience, and effort at the forefront. And remember, a shared sense of humor can make the journey even more delightful.

For more insights and stories, stay tuned to the Mada & Hugh Piano Duo Podcast. We’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences, so feel free to share in the comments. Until next time, happy dating and learning!

Welcome back to the Mada & Hugh Piano Duo Podcast. In this episode, we conclude our in-depth interview series with the illustrious collaborative pianist and professor Lambert Orkis from Temple University. In this final part, we delve into Lambert’s transition from a solo career to collaborative piano, his long-standing partnership with violinist Anne-Sophie Mutter, and his insights on the evolving landscape of classical music.

Lambert Orkis began his musical journey as a solo pianist, but he quickly found his true calling in collaborative piano. In his words, this path suited him better and allowed him to thrive. He shared that while a solo career requires mastering many different aspects beyond just playing well, his strengths lay in working with ensembles and other musicians. This realization led him to a rich and fulfilling career in collaborative music, where he could leverage his unique talents and enjoy the camaraderie of playing with others.

One of the most significant collaborations in Lambert’s career has been with the renowned violinist Anne-Sophie Mutter. Their partnership spans nearly four decades, and Lambert describes their connection as a “musical marriage.” This deep, long-term collaboration is a testament to their mutual respect, understanding, and shared artistic vision. Their performances have captivated audiences worldwide, showcasing the profound synergy that can be achieved through dedicated collaboration.

Hugh expressed his admiration for Lambert’s youthful spirit and his passion for technology. Lambert’s enthusiasm for photography and the latest tech gadgets, like his new Mac Studio computer, highlights his forward-thinking mindset. He recognizes the importance of staying current with technological advancements and their role in the modern world of classical music. Lambert’s ability to blend traditional musical excellence with contemporary tools is a valuable lesson for young musicians navigating today’s complex landscape.

During the interview, Lambert offered invaluable advice for young pianists and musicians. He emphasized the need for entrepreneurial skills, technological proficiency, and a flexible mindset. According to Lambert, while there isn’t a fixed formula for success, being prepared, adaptable, and open to new opportunities can make a significant difference. He encouraged young musicians to build a diverse repertoire, engage with audiences, and continuously strive for excellence.

Lambert candidly shared some of the challenges he faced in his career. Despite premiering major piano concertos and performing in prestigious venues like Carnegie Hall, he encountered personal and professional hurdles. His journey underscores the importance of resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity. Lambert’s story is a powerful reminder that even the most successful musicians must navigate difficulties and setbacks on their path to greatness.

Lambert’s passion for technology extends beyond music. He is an avid photographer, capturing stunning images of birds with his Nikon camera. His love for Star Trek and its portrayal of endless possibilities further reflects his open-mindedness and curiosity. Lambert’s embrace of technology and new ideas is an inspiration for musicians to explore and integrate modern tools into their artistic practices.

As we conclude this interview series, we are deeply grateful to Lambert Orkis for sharing his incredible journey, wisdom, and insights. His career exemplifies the richness of collaborative music and the importance of staying adaptable and open to new experiences. Lambert’s story is a beacon of inspiration for aspiring musicians and a testament to the enduring power of music to connect and uplift.

Thank you for joining us on the Mada & Hugh Piano Duo Podcast. We hope you enjoyed this three-part interview series with the remarkable Lambert Orkis. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and insights from the world of classical music.

Welcome back to the Mada & Hugh Piano Duo Podcast. In this episode, we continue our engaging interview with the illustrious collaborative pianist and professor Lambert Orkis from Temple University. This is the second part of a three-part series where we delve into Professor Orkis's experiences post-graduation from the Curtis Institute of Music, his collaboration with the legendary cellist Mstislav Rostropovich, and his relentless pursuit of musical excellence.

Upon graduating from the Curtis Institute of Music, Lambert Orkis faced an existential crisis. Like many young musicians, he wondered what the future held. He shared how his family, not worldly wise about musical careers, couldn't provide much guidance. However, an enlightening experience at Curtis directed his path. A counterpoint and theory teacher, Matthew Colucci, introduced him to the exquisite playing of Marion Filar, a pianist known for his Chopin interpretations. This revelation led Lambert to pursue further studies at Temple University, where he eventually became a significant part of the institution.

Lambert Orkis’s initial foray into professional music came when Dr. David Stone, the founder of the College of Music at Temple, offered him an assistantship to play for recitals. This role was both challenging and rewarding, as he had to perform for 47 people in his first year. Through this experience, Lambert honed his ensemble skills, working with various musicians and learning diverse repertoires, from brass and tuba pieces to contemporary music.

One memorable ensemble experience was with Marian Van Erck’s Franklin Concerts, which provided young musicians opportunities to perform throughout Pennsylvania. These performances were pivotal in building Lambert’s confidence and repertoire. His dedication and excellence in these performances did not go unnoticed, eventually attracting the attention of renowned musicians and organizations.

A significant turning point in Lambert’s career was his introduction to Mstislav Rostropovich, a legendary cellist and conductor. Lambert’s first encounter with Rostropovich happened during a masterclass at the Kennedy Center. Despite the intimidating environment, Lambert’s passion and preparedness impressed Rostropovich, leading to an immediate bond between the two.

Rostropovich’s influence on Lambert’s career was profound. He invited Lambert to join the National Symphony Orchestra on a tour in Asia, marking the beginning of a long and fruitful collaboration. Playing complex pieces like Prokofiev's Second Symphony and Shostakovich’s Fifth Symphony under Rostropovich’s baton was both challenging and exhilarating for Lambert.

Lambert shared fascinating anecdotes about the intensity and demands of working with Rostropovich. From performing impromptu recitals for high-profile audiences, including President Reagan, to adapting to Rostropovich’s unpredictable rehearsal schedules, Lambert’s resilience and adaptability were constantly tested. Despite these challenges, the partnership flourished for over eleven years, with the duo performing extensively across Asia, South America, and North America.

The deep musical connection between Lambert and Rostropovich was evident in their performances. They spent significant time together, rehearsing and refining their art, which translated into captivating performances that resonated with audiences worldwide. Their collaboration was a testament to the power of dedication, preparation, and mutual respect in achieving artistic excellence.

Lambert Orkis’s journey post-Curtis and his experiences with Mstislav Rostropovich offer invaluable lessons for aspiring musicians. His story is a powerful reminder of the importance of perseverance, preparedness, and seizing opportunities with courage and confidence. Stay tuned for the final part of our interview, where we delve deeper into Lambert’s illustrious career and his insights into the world of classical music.

Thank you for joining us on the Mada & Hugh Piano Duo Podcast. Be sure to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from the world of classical music.

Welcome to another episode of the Mada & Hugh Piano Duo Podcast. Today, we're thrilled to bring you the first part of our interview with the esteemed collaborative pianist and professor, Lambert Orkis from Temple University. This interview, originally conducted last year, delves into the early life, musical beginnings, and career of Professor Orkis. As we reflect on our first guest, we are excited to share his story and insights into his approach to music and life.

We filmed this special interview at Temple University's Boyer College of Music, specifically in Rock Hall, a beautiful auditorium that provided the perfect backdrop for our conversation. Although the interview is about an hour long, we’ve decided to break it into three parts for easier listening. In this first segment, you'll get to know Lambert Orkis, his early encounters with music, and his journey to becoming a renowned pianist.

Before diving into the interview, Mada and I shared our personal experiences with Professor Orkis. Mada, having worked with him for over five years, expressed how continuously enlightening it is to discover new aspects of his personality and approach to music and life. For me, meeting Professor Orkis was a profound experience, especially since we both graduated from the Curtis Institute of Music and studied under the same teacher, Eleanor Sokoloff. His unique insights into musicianship and his warm, kind nature have left a lasting impression on both of us.

The interview begins with Lambert Orkis sharing his musical origins. Coming from a blue-collar family with no strong musical background, his journey is particularly inspiring. His family inherited a piano from his grandmother, which sparked his early interest in music. A kindergarten teacher recognized his talent and encouraged his mother to seek formal lessons for him.

Lambert started his formal piano education with conductor Guglielmo Sabatini, learning to read music and developing his skills. By the age of six, he was already playing advanced pieces like the A major Mozart Sonata. His mother, noticing his talent, sought out the best teachers in Philadelphia, eventually leading Lambert to study with the legendary Eleanor Sokoloff at the Curtis Institute of Music.

At ten years old, Lambert began his studies with Eleanor Sokoloff, a formidable presence and a significant influence on his musical development. He vividly recalls his first lesson, where he barely got through two bars of Schumann’s “Scenes from Childhood” due to the intense focus on phrasing and creating a beautiful sound. Mrs. Sokoloff’s rigorous technical training laid the foundation for his future success, including learning intricate passage work, scales, and arpeggios.

Under Mrs. Sokoloff's guidance, Lambert's talent flourished. By eleven, he was performing with the Philadelphia Orchestra and participating in children’s concerts. His dedication and hard work led to his acceptance into the Curtis Institute of Music at the age of thirteen, where he continued his studies for five years. Mrs. Sokoloff’s emphasis on excellence and feeling the music deeply influenced Lambert’s artistic journey.

Both Hugh and Lambert shared their experiences with Mrs. Sokoloff's teaching methods. Her approach to technical training was rigorous, ensuring a strong foundation that made learning more complex pieces easier. Lambert’s dedication to practice and his pursuit of technical mastery were evident in his remarkable progress and achievements.

This first part of our interview with Lambert Orkis offers a fascinating glimpse into the early life and musical development of a remarkable pianist. His journey from a humble beginning to studying at one of the most prestigious music schools in the world is a testament to his talent and perseverance. Stay tuned for part two, where we delve deeper into his career and the influential musicians he encountered along the way.

We hope you enjoyed this segment of the Mada & Hugh Piano Duo Podcast. Join us next time for more insights and stories from the world of classical music.