KP: I understand that Shanachie didn’t request any changes to the music on “Painting the Sun” and that even the artwork was completed before Shanachie saw and heard the CD. Will you have full artistic control on future projects as well?
Lanz: They were happy with the artistic choices I had made, and only requested that I put a photo of myself on the back cover. They sensed that I had a good feel for my work and my audience, so they let me run with the ball. We are on a wait and see basis, but I see no reason not to do another project with them.
KP: Quite a bit of the music on “Painting the Sun” is even more fluid than usual and is somewhat more experimental than your earlier recordings. Was a lot of this music improvised in your home studio?
Lanz: I did have the freedom to improvise and really take the time to hone the new material in the context of my home studio. This of course takes the pressure off from being in a recording studio where the clock is ticking and the bill is mounting up. :-) I was able to do multiple takes of the same songs, and I did leave room for improvisation within the framework of the composed pieces.
KP: I can’t wait for the sheet music for “Her Solitude”! It takes me to the same place as “The Visitor,” which I still dearly love from your Grammy-nominated “East of the Moon” album. Does Hal Leonard have a target date for the release of the companion songbook for “Painting the Sun”?
Lanz: Hal Leonard is already moving ahead on the new songbook, and I wouldn’t be surprised if it is available by year’s end. Christmas is coming you know!! :)
KP: You told me not too long ago that you moved out of Seattle to be in a quieter environment to slow down a bit and possibly move toward retirement, and yet you seem to be more creative and active than ever. What happened?
Lanz: Some of the activity of my CD release schedule was dictated by material I already had in the vaults (“A Cup of Moonlight”) and by my reunion with filmmaker Jan Nickman (“Living Temples”). It also seems that my live performances and workshop events are still in demand, and it is hard for me to say “no” when the muse calls (“Painting The Sun”). So there you have it!
KP: You have become very active with Whisperings Solo Piano Radio, participating in many of their concerts. I know you usually prefer to perform alone, so what led you to become a part of this group of pianists?
Lanz: The Whisperings Solo Piano Radio phenomena was very intriguing, especially in light of the all but nonexistent airplay now for solo piano music on terrestrial radio. David Nevue has really energized the solo piano community across the country, and I was more than happy to throw my hat into the ring. I have elder status in this group and am happy to have them use my name to bring awareness to the live shows which give the other pianists a chance to play for piano fans that normally they would not. It has also given me a chance to revisit areas of the country that I have not been to in awhile (which the fans love) and perform with great pianists - of course having a bit of fun along the way.
KP: I noticed on your website that you are now offering personal coaching to upcoming pianists - another facet to your illustrious and legendary career! How did you come to start this?
Lanz: Coaching is something I have done for years, unofficially. I just thought I would make it more available.
KP: Are you getting much of a response to it?
Lanz: It has been a bit slow to start. I expect our economy is partially responsible for that. I am happy to keep my coaching available for the serious pianists out there who may find a bit of wisdom from one who has almost seen it all! :-) Coaching also comes into play in my workshops, and I do occasionally give a private lesson here and there.
KP: What would someone expect to have happen in one of your coaching sessions?
