Pianist Stephen Hough: Faith, prayer and Tchaikovsky
by Brian Newhouse, Minnesota Public Radio
Pianist Stephen Hough is in the Twin Cities for an ambitious project with the Minnesota Orchestra: recording all of Tchaikovsky's sweeping piano and orchestra works live in concert for the Hyperion label. It's a huge endeavor that requires an extremely focused mind, in addition to talent and skill. Hough credits his ability to "unravel his mind" to his religious faith and daily meditation.
St. Paul, Minn. — Stephen Hough pauses to catch his breath from a whirlwind of activity -- rehearsing, practicing and preparing for a series of live concerts that will culminate in a complete set of Tchaikovsky's music for piano and orchestra.
When Hough reflects on his life, it's not simply about playing the piano. It encompasses conducting, composing, and writing about music, then expands those boundaries to include other endeavors for which he feels an equal amount of passion.
Hough is a devout Roman Catholic and once seriously considered the priesthood. Part of what keeps him focused on myriad tasks is daily meditation. Three years ago, he published "The Bible As Prayer: A Handbook for Lectio Divina."
Stephen Hough talks about his book, and the intersection of faith and music in a hectic everyday schedule.
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Alison Young and Mike Pengra assisted with this story.
Brian Newhouse
• Host, Managing Director, Classical ProgrammingBrian Newhouse is the Managing Director of Minnesota Public Radio/American Public Media's classical programming, including SymphonyCast, Performance Today, Pipedreams, and the national 24-hour service, Classical 24.
