James Falzon
Between Keller and Paul when he was in Adelaide.
22/1/1973
Dear Maestro,
Coming back to Adelaide has been a bag of mixed emotions for me. The last time I was here was obviously with you and the intensity I felt in practicing with you for the competition was exhilarating even though I was disappointed that I only came third. I miss that passion so much.
And I am sorry I abruptly stopped our last conversation in Darwin - what did you want to share with me? And why did you not tell me about how you lost your finger? I must admit I was getting mad at you (again) that you took the time to insult me (again) during our final lesson. Mind you, you have always been a vault of secrets. Is it still so hard for you to let me into your mind and world? I have known you since I was 15, why is it that you are still a mystery?
I have finally settled into the Conservatorium, but it hasn’t taken me long to realize that law studies are just not for me. Mum and Dad will be furious, but I just don’t care. The music teachers are at me to focus on my music and that is what I am going to do. But these teachers bore me to death with their basic knowledge as I have more skill in my little finger, compared to what other piano players have with their ten fingers. They are nothing like you as teachers. See, it is not hard to give out a compliment once in a while!
Speaking of compliments (or lack of), I received the tape back from you which I sent you of my Honors Performance. I was hoping that you really enjoyed the pieces as I won many awards for it. Even after all this time, it disappoints me that you still cannot give me an ounce of respect or acknowledgement for the level of skill I have. What will it take for you to give me some praise? Is it that hard for you to recognize that I have become just as good as you? I shouldn’t be surprised really Maestro…
And sorry, no, but I cannot accept your invitation to head back to Darwin to work on the pieces. I am busier than ever and am keen to catch up with Rosie in Melbourne. I am sure you understand. Love conquers all!
I have some other good news Maestro – my parents have finally relented, and I am about to go abroad for two years to test the waters as a concert pianist. I can imagine you grumbling that I do not have what it takes to make it in Europe. I know that I can prove you wrong.
Wish me luck as I take on the world.
Paul.
Between Paul and Rosie during his years of competition.
15/7/1975
Hello my beautiful Rosie,
I hope you are well and missing me as much as I am missing you. Playing piano barely fills the void I have in my heart. But I must do this for myself and so happy that you still support me on this musical adventure.
I have taken your advice to visit Salzburg and in between competitions, have taken a job as a piano teacher at a finishing school. While I am here, I am on a bit of a mission to find out more about the Maestro and the piano school of Leschetitzky. The mystery aro...