Stephen Vaglica, Pianist
USA, Detroit
My approach to classical music:
Whether I am learning new works or going over old repertoire my approach is always the same. I stick to a very simple but effective method that has always proven to be of great value. Considering all things being equal, meaning that I presume I have what it takes to play works at a top level( i.e- talent, technic and experience) i favor a rather direct system for learning. Knowledge, Education and Hard Work. By Knowledge I mean Harmonic Structure, Style, Technical Difficulties and Form. By Education I mean Historical Contexts, Familiarity of Composer and his works, Intent of Composer. By Hard Work I mean: practice methodically and patiently, set realistic goals, define the final scope of the work( if its just for learning, or recording or live performance) and stick to the decided course!!
Profile
Maestro Vaglica was born in 1964 in New York from Italian ancestry. After displaying a prodigious ability in music by age eight, he and his family moved to Italy in pursuit of formal training. Vaglica attended the “Vincenzo Bellini” Conservatory in Palermo under the guidance of Antonio Trombone, who has long been considered one of the pillars of the Italian piano school. Vaglica graduated Summa Cum Laude from the Conservatory and left Palermo to continue his studies in Venice under the noted pianist Maestro Vincenzo Pertile, who contributed enormously in perfecting Vaglica’s extensive piano repertoire. Acceptance to the Aaron Copeland School of Music in New York at the age of 18 brought Vaglica back to the US. He studied composition under Sol Berkowitz and Leo Kraft and took guidance form Leonard Eisner in conducting. Vladislav Kovalski, a famed Russian pianist and proponent of the Russian School of piano collaborated for five years with Vaglica starting in 1987 to complete his training. Kovalski offered a rich musical heritage to Vaglica; his own training having descended from Nikoliev and Perlemann. Vaglica has since played to world audiences winning universal acclaim and notoriety. He was also won several music awards. He regularly appears as a soloist in major venues including Japan, South Korea, Italy, Spain, and the US. He has been invited to perform by prestigious music organizations such as the Chopin Society of New York and has appeared as a Special Performing Artist on behalf of the Italian Consulate. In addition to his solo recital appearances, Vaglica continues to concertize with major orchestras and has maintained a busy concert schedule throughout Europe and the United States. In addition to his full performing schedule, Vaglica has been a member of Jury Panels for International Piano Competitions. He regularly holds master classes, and continues his recording work for international distribution. His most recent project includes an all-Chopin album. An all-Beethoven album is currently in the works. Maestro Vaglica resides in his homes between the US and Italy with his wife and three children.
