On Friday morning, October 3rd, world-renowned pianist Awadagin Pratt took a break from rehearsing Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1 for the upcoming weekend to visit the brave and budding 5th grade orchestra at Columbia Elementary, an arts-integrated school in D11.
Just two weeks into learning their instruments, these young musicians had the unforgettable experience of rehearsing Hot Cross Buns with Mr. Pratt himself. He worked with each section on their most challenging notes, encouraging and uplifting them with every phrase.
Later, at a school-wide assembly, Awadagin delighted students with a special performance of Franz Liszt’s solo piano transcription of Robert Schumann’s “Widmung,” the same piece he once played on Sesame Street with Big Bird. He unpacked the music’s emotional depth by teaching the difference between major and minor keys—and the moods they evoke.
During a Q&A, a curious 3rd grader asked,
“Like when did you know you were really really good at piano and is that when you wanted to share it?” Awadagin humbly replied, “Well, I’m still not really really good, but I am getting there. And sharing is the most important part—sharing music is sharing your life.”
🎶 Thank you, Awadagin Pratt, for sharing your music and your heart with our students. You’ve inspired a new generation of artists.
