Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Carol Leone.
Hi Dr. Leone, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Dr. Carol Leone Chair of Piano Studies
Professor of Piano
SMU Meadows School of the Arts
I am a classical pianist– a soloist and chamber musician who has appeared throughout the US, Europe, and Asia. I have just completed my 28th year as a Professor of Piano at SMU Meadows School of the Arts, where I am also Chair of Piano Studies. In the summers, I teach at a music academy in Siena, Italy. My CD recording Change of Keys on MSR Classics garnered two 2016 Silver Global Awards. I frequently serve as a juror in piano competitions, most recently for the Van Cliburn International Junior Piano Competition.
I grew up in the 1960s in an Italian American family of jazz musicians and was a child jazz entertainer in New York state. Since 1981, my Regan Smith and I have made Texas our home, where we raised two children, Ryan and Olivia Smith.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
In my 20’s and early 30’s, it was a particularly challenging time working and raising children while completing a doctorate degree and entering international piano competitions. Since 2000, my biggest challenge has been as an advocate for a technology that has offered a new paradigm in the traditionally conservative field of classical piano.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others? I’m considered one of the world’s leading advocates of alternatively-sized keys for pianos. As such, I’ve energized a worldwide movement to transform pianists’ artistry and wellness. Invited to conferences around the world, I remind audiences of the innate wholeness of any pianist and the new paradigm for elevating their music-making.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
My father and uncles were all musicians and early mentors. Along the way, I had the privilege of studying with many brilliant piano professors all over the country and in Italy, who were all crucial to me as teachers and mentors. My family (especially my husband Regan) is a constant inspiration and support to me.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.carolleone.com
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXoZWUwC4jurCp1na-OQh6w
