Concert pianist, Brother Hando Nahkur recently won First Prize in the “2012 Algur H. Meadows” International Concerto Competition in Dallas. This was quite an honor and gave him an opportunity to perform as a soloist F.Liszt‘s “Totentanz” with the SMU Meadows Symphony Orchestra and Maestro Paul Phillips in two big Symphony Concerts “Stars of Tomorrow.”
Nahkur holds a Bachelor of Music degree from the New England Conservatory of Music, where he studied with Gabriel Chodos; a Certificate in Performance and Master of Music degree from Yale University School of Music, where he studied with Boris Berman; and an Artist diploma from Texan Christian University School of Music, where he studied with Tams Ungar. Currently Nahkur is continuing his studies with Joaquin Achucarro at Southern Methodist University Meadows School of the Arts.
On March 2, 2012 Nahkur performed Liszt’s Totentanz, a powerful piece, with the full SMU Meadows Symphony Orchestra at the Caruth Auditorium on campus. Completed in 1849, with revisions in 1853 and 1859, the final version of Totentanz (Dance of Death) was first performed at the Hague in the Netherlands on April 15, 1865, by Liszt’s student Hans von Bulow.
Nahkur, fast becoming an international star, held the honor of performing last as the featured soloist where he promptly brought down the house. His interpretation of Totentanz was breath taking earning him three standing ovations at its conclusion and two curtain calls.
You can see much of the life and accomplishments of Nahkur as well as some excellent videos on his website http://www.handonahkur.com
Freemason, accomplished artist, friend, it is a privilege and honor to know such a great man.
Brothers Hando Nahkur & Fred Milliken after his performance on March 2, 2012 at Caruth Auditorium on the SMU Campus.