From his first public performance at age 16 to his final recital at 84, Albert Hirsh devoted his life to music. He was known for his superb ensemble playing, sensitive interpretation of everything from baroque to brand new, and tireless pursuit of perfection. For much of his career he shared the stage with some of the world’s most well-known concert artists such as Nathan Milstein, Yehudi Menuhin and Itzhak Perlman, to name only a few. For four decades he also maintained a full teaching schedule at the University of Houston, where he was a professor of music and Artist-in-Residence. This website celebrates the July 1, 2015 centennial of his birth.
To read or download our booklet produced in 2004, click this link:
What a wonderful homage to your father.
I was one of his private students, beginning when I was 13. I went on to study with other teachers, but none could compare with your dad. I cannot practice without hearing him offering me his infinite guidance and advice. He laid a wonderful, firm foundation for me in my learning and playing.
thank you for all of your work in keeping Albert’s music and voice alive. He was my chamber music coach and sometimes accompanist, when I was studying violin and viola at the University of Houston. The depth of his knowledge, humor and good will has stayed with me throughout my own musical career, as a profound gift. Many thanks for your work.
A great pianist, accompanist and teacher that made everyone sound better in every way!
What a great surprise! I was one of your father’s students (1968-1970) at the U of H, went on to Peabody and then to Europe (Finland) where I’ve worked as a piano teacher since 1978. I am now retired. This message brought back old days’ memories. Albert Hirsh was by far the best piano teacher I ever had!
What a joy to read this wonderful story that fills in much that I did not know about the early life of Albert Hirsh. During the time that I was a member of the Houston Symphony Orchestra (1948-55), one of my major memories is of a solo recital (shared with a violinist) and with Albert as pianist. I was well aware of how fortunate I was to have his great attention and outstanding level of expertise given to the rarity of playing for an oboist!! I should be able to find a copy of the program when I return to Seattle!!
He was a special person to me and our family while growing up and later on. His willingness to play on our old upright piano must have bothered him but he never made any comments.
I will forward this site to all the people I know that knew of Albert so they can enjoy his fabulous talent.
Carol
Ethan, it has been hard for me to pull myself away from your dad’s website to say what a wonderful tribute and honorable work you have done! It was a privilege and honor to have studied with Albert Hirsh for 22 years and for him to also teach Charlie, Audry and Steve, who are now musicians in their own right. He was a mentor for Charlie and taught him so much more than music. He taught me with the most kindness and respectable way for those many years. Mr. Hirsh knew my limitations as a pianist but taught me how to be a teacher. He taught me the importance of detail, each note, phrase, dynamic…. how important the written page was, with the utmost patience. His master teaching has carried me through all these years as a piano teacher, and next year will be my 50th year of teaching, and I will be 85. Thank you for sharing your dad’s life story with so many of us. I am forever grateful.
Katie
This is such an amazing site … thank you, Ethan, for all the work you have put into it. You can be proud of it! I am very much looking forward to frequent repeat visits here.