The 5 Browns

The evening was even more than I had hoped.  The Omaha Conservatory of Music set up three pianos in the three lobbies and presented their piano students in what was like a piano recital at each location.  I was fortunate to be assigned to one location so I had a preconcert before the Browns' concert.

The oldest Brown had a sudden and serious eye infection and could not make the concert so their composer, arranger took her place.  He was a real treat as he was amazingly skilled at the piano.  The program was altered somewhat to showcase his talent. 

The program featured some pieces that all five played together and others where only one, two or three played at a time.  Each person has their own strengths and weaknesses so they compliment each other well.

They had a question and answer session after the intermission.  They have a very personable and informal style.  The group has a total of 20 Steinway grands.  Five travel with them.  Five are in their parents' basement so they can practice together.  Five are each in a separate room in their parents' home.  The remaining five are in each of their homes as they no longer live with their parents.

The most amazing thing about their work in that they have an amazing sense of each other and they are perfectly synchronized.  The fellow who substituted for the missing Brown said he also was amazed at their ability to play together.  He said he had to be very alert and watchful in order to be in synch with them all.  

I had to miss the first two numbers to take late comers' tickets.  I had to stand through the first half, but had a good seat during the second half.  After the concert they consented to autographing CDs in the lower lobby where I was assigned, so I was asked to be the floor captain's assistant with crowd control.  All in all I am so glad I got to see such a phenomenal event.