Pianist Helmut Deutsch relates his journey from unknown repetiteur to one of the most refined and sought-after accompanists of the modern era. In this book, he gives, with humour and modesty, fascinating insights into pianistic technique, repertoire, performance, interpersonal relationships, and the special qualities required for his profession.
During a career spanning more than 50 years, Helmut Deutsch has accompanied over 100 singers, including such artists as Ian Bostridge, Grace Bumbry, Diana Damrau, Brigitte Fassbaender, Jonas Kaufmann, Angelika Kirchschlager, Christoph Pregardien, Mauro Peter, Hermann Prey, Thomas Quasthoff, Yumiko Samejima, Peter Schreier, Irmgard Seefried and Anne Sofie von Otter. In the words of the critic Robert Jungwirth, writing in BR Klassik, March 2019, Helmut Deutsch's book is 'a declaration of love - for all the many wonderful songs and cycles, and for many singers'. Richard Stokes, the distinguished translator of this memoir, is Professor of Lieder at the Royal Academy of Music. He has written and lectured copiously on German song, and his singing translations of Berg's Wozzeck and Lulu, and Wagner's Parsifal, have met with high critical acclaim. He was awarded the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany in 2012.
