What a pleasant surprise! I just finished listening to Mme. Lhevinne's magnificent performance of the Chopin E minor Concerto and noticed this had been posted; I had no idea this interview even existed! The young Van's poise and modesty were a pleasure to hear, but having had the pleasure of meeting up with him backstage after the many times I attended his performances, I was not surprised at how polished and articulate he was when being interviewed, even at his tender age. Rosina Lhevinne was also a wonderful raconteur (raconteuse?), and I highly recommend this eight-minute window into a wonderful age....
I am glad Mme. Lhevinne gave credit to Rilda Bee Cliburn, who all on her own "created" a very accomplished virtuoso. In the few years Lhevinne taught him she added no doubt something significant, but Cliburn was, quite unusually for a pianist, mostly the product of his mother's very advanced teaching.
Something must be wrong here.Cliburn was born 12.July 1934 , so he was 20 at November 14.1954 . Maybe the date is Wrong. I can't believe that an honest man like Van Cliburn would make himself a year younger.
This was a good deal before he won in Moscow. Apparently, after this interview, Van went through a period where his talents were not quite as appreciated as they deserved. But after Moscow, that was all in the rear view mirror. If ever a time machine materializes, here would be a marvelous stopping off point.
I'm working on compiling this complete broadcast from several tape sources. Would you be willing to share the introduction to this interview? We have the full interview, itself from a tape made off-air in Philadelphia. With full credit, of course.