Part 2

PCM: In your bio it says, “He attaches considerable importance to the meticulous work of the study of sources”. Can you elaborate on that?

Rudolf: In the past ten years I started to search for old editions because I was never satisfied with certain editions, to many mistakes. They would have wrong fingering and wrong pedals. They’re made with foolish mistakes. I have about eighteen complete original copies of the Beethoven piano sonatas. I have 1^st edition copies of the entire repertoire I play. By the way, did you know my web site?

PCM: Yes, I’m looking at it as we speak.

Rudolf: My son did it.

PCM: How many kids do you have?

Rudolf: Two, one son, one daughter and two grandchildren.

PCM: Are they musical?

Rudolf: My son plays the electric guitar.  He says, “Papa let’s play”.

PCM: Do you?

Rudolf: Yes!

PCM: Did you try to push him into classical music?

Rudolf: No! I never pushed my children into anything.

PCM: What is your concert preparation?

Rudolf: On the day of the concert the only rule I have is that after lunch I sleep. 

PCM: Is it nervousness that makes you fall asleep? 

Rudolf: The funny thing is, the older I get the more I get nervous because you think to much. So many hours before the concert I try to avoid thinking of the concert.

PCM: Do you have a practice schedule?

Rudolf: There is no rule, I practice as I need it but I’m practicing with my brain twenty-four hours.

PCM: You will be performing with the Philadelphia Orchestra on March 27, 28 and 29.

Rudolf: I love this orchestra. I think the Philadelphia Orchestra is one of the best in the world I am glad to have three performances with them.

PCM: Out of your 100 recording do you have a favorite?

Rudolf: Oh, that you have to ask my wife. It depends what she has in the car right now.