Picture this: we're sitting at the piano, working through Johann Christian Bach's Op. 15 duets, when something strikes us. This music represents an extraordinary business story from the 18th century.

Here's "The London Bach"—music master to Queen Charlotte herself—lending royal authority to what had been, just twelve months earlier, a quirky experiment in Charles Burney's workshop. As our hands navigate those elegant galant phrases (carefully avoiding collision), we're reminded that this wasn't simply artistic evolution. This was commerce and art intersecting in remarkable ways.

The speed of this transformation remains striking. In 1777, Burney had to finance his own publication. By 1778, Johann Christian Bach—with his impressive royal connections—was already in the game. One year. That rapid entry tells us everything about how quickly publishers recognized the commercial potential.

Vienna's response was particularly enthusiastic. Artaria & Company expanded into music publishing by 1778 with a brilliant strategy: high-quality copper engraving, international distribution, and they specifically targeted the emerging middle class rather than just aristocratic patrons. They published both original four-hand works and arrangements of symphonies and operas for domestic use. Suddenly, you didn't need to attend the opera house to experience Mozart's latest work. A piano and a willing partner would suffice.

By 1782—merely five years after Burney's experiment—even smaller German cities like Dessau were publishing four-hand music. When publishers in regional markets invest capital in a new genre, it signals something beyond a passing trend.

The timeline is remarkable:

• 1777: Burney self-publishes his "Four Sonatas or Duets" in London
• 1778: J.C. Bach publishes Op. 15 with royal endorsement
• 1780: Clementi publishes his pedagogical Op. 3
• 1785: Koželuch elevates four-hands to concert status
• 1790s: Four-hand arrangements become industry standard

Within fifteen years, four-hand music went from Burney's experimental self-publication to an essential part of every publisher's catalog. That's not organic growth—that's a gold rush.

As we research this repertoire for our podcast series, we're discovering that beneath the commercial success lies something profound: the recognition that making music together creates connections impossible in solo performance. The four-hand piano gold rush of 1777-1790 wasn't just about money—it was about discovering a new way for people to connect through music.

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Mada & Hugh Piano Duo preview their September 7 recital at the Enescu Festival in Bucharest, featuring music by Enescu and Livia Teodorescu-Ciocănea.

In this episode, the Mada & Hugh Piano Duo share their journey to the George Enescu International Festival in Bucharest, where they will perform on September 7 at the historic Suțu Palace. They explore the legacy of Romania’s greatest composer, George Enescu, and preview their all-Romanian program. The conversation highlights Madalina’s personal connection to her former professor Livia Teodorescu-Ciocănea, whose Sonatina Buffa pays homage to Charlie Chaplin and the golden era of silent film. From Enescu’s rhapsodic folk-inspired sound world to the humor and pathos of Chaplin on the piano, Mada & Hugh invite listeners into the heart of Romanian musical heritage.

This summer has been nothing short of extraordinary for the Mada & Hugh Piano Duo, filled with premieres, collaborations, and unforgettable performances across continents. From the grandeur of Vienna to the vibrancy of Wilmington, Delaware, each stop on our journey added a new layer of meaning to our music-making.

A World Premiere in Vienna
Mădălina-Claudia Dănilă began the summer in Vienna with a landmark event: the world premiere of a new piano concerto written especially for her by close friend and collaborator, conductor, cellist, and composer Ovidiu Marinescu. Performed with the Vienna Chamber Orchestra in the historic Konzerthaus, the work was infused with the spirit of Romanian folk music. Though conceived as a concise, three-part “mini-concerto,” Marinescu is already planning to expand it, inspired by the possibilities uncovered in this first performance. For Mădălina, it was a thrilling blend of personal heritage and artistic innovation.

“Three Omens” – A Filmic Collaboration
Hardly back from Vienna, the duo dove into another major project: the release of Three Omens, a new piano work by rising composer Christian Mechem. Commissioned in memory of George Crumb, this piece brought together Mădălina as performer and Hugh as producer, videographer, and director. Recorded on a Bösendorfer 280VC at Cunningham Piano’s Cherry Hill showroom and filmed at Millersville University, the project allowed unprecedented creative freedom. Hugh painstakingly storyboarded each camera angle, creating one of the most visually striking videos the duo has released to date. The video premiered on August 3, setting a new benchmark for future productions.

In Residence at the Summer Piano Institute
Closing out the summer, the duo served as guest artists at the 15th Annual Summer Piano Institute at the Music School of Delaware. Their opening concert introduced students and families to fresh repertoire, including Rachmaninoff’s Morceaux de Quatre Mains, Op. 11, and their own transcription of Suita din Dobrogea, a work rooted in Romanian folk traditions that quickly became a student favorite. Beyond concerts, Mada and Hugh spent the week coaching ensembles, sharing stories of their mentors, and emphasizing the importance of collaboration, mindfulness, and discipline in ensemble playing.

A Summer to Remember
From international premieres to educational residencies, the summer of 2025 was a vivid reminder of music’s power to connect cultures and generations. And with new projects and interviews already lined up for the fall—including features on Crushing Classical and The Piano Pod—the Mada & Hugh Piano Duo are carrying this momentum forward into an exciting new season.

Welcome to a new chapter in the musical travels of the Mada & Hugh Piano Duo! This time, we’re diving into the vibrant sounds of Romania with our latest arrangement: the Suita din Dobrogea (Suite from Dobrogea). Let us take you on a journey through music and culture as we explore the roots and rhythms of this unique region, all captured in a one-of-a-kind four-hand piano performance.

A Love Letter to Romania

Mada, born in Romania, shares a deep connection to her homeland, and Hugh, inspired by his partner, has embraced Romanian culture with enthusiasm. Together, we’ve been fascinated by the rich traditions of Romanian folk music, which have influenced classical composers like Liszt, Brahms, and Enescu. But there’s something particularly special about the Dobrogea region that we couldn’t resist exploring further.

Dobrogea: A Cultural Crossroads

Dobrogea is located in Southeastern Romania, bordered by the Black Sea, Bulgaria, and the Danube River. It’s a land steeped in history, having been touched by Greek, Roman, Ottoman, and Bulgarian influences over the centuries. This cultural melting pot is evident not only in its architecture and history but also in its music.

Mada’s family roots trace back to this region, which makes it especially dear to us. Dobrogea is home to some of the oldest cities in Romania, like Constanța, with its Roman ruins and strategic location as a crossroads of trade. This dynamic cultural exchange has infused Dobrogea's music with an unparalleled diversity and vibrancy.

Unearthing the Dobrogean Suite

The Suita din Dobrogea is a collection of traditional music recorded in the 1970s and later reinterpreted in the 1990s. These pieces, which are improvised rather than written down, capture the essence of Dobrogea’s folk traditions. They feature distinctive instruments like the nai (Romanian pan flute), the dulcimer (also known as țambal), and the violin.

The standout rhythm in these pieces is the Jamparale, a lively traditional dance. Its odd meters and Eastern-inspired improvisations make it both challenging and exciting to adapt for piano. We were captivated by this music’s energy and spirit and decided to create our own four-hand piano arrangement to bring it to a wider audience.

A Unique Four-Hand Arrangement

Transforming the Suita din Dobrogea into a piano duet was both a challenge and a joy. The suite’s rich textures, intricate rhythms, and improvisational essence demanded a deep understanding of the music’s roots. We worked tirelessly to honor the authenticity of the original recordings while giving it our personal touch as pianists.

What makes this music so engaging is its ability to surprise and captivate. The odd rhythms, Eastern tonalities, and interplay between East and West in its melodies speak to the heart of Romanian folk culture. For us, playing this music together is not just a performance; it’s a celebration of Dobrogea’s vibrant legacy.

Why Dobrogea Stands Out

While Romania is a tapestry of diverse regions, Dobrogea stands out for its blend of influences and historical significance. Its music reflects centuries of cultural exchange, from Greek and Roman traditions to Turkish and Balkan sounds. For us, Dobrogea feels like the beating heart of Romania—an energetic, colorful region that continues to inspire.

Join Us on This Journey

We hope you’ll enjoy our four-hand piano arrangement of the Suita din Dobrogea. It’s a tribute to the region’s rich heritage and a celebration of the universal language of music. Whether you’re familiar with Romanian folk traditions or hearing them for the first time, we believe this suite has the power to transport and inspire.

Without further ado, we invite you to experience the sounds of Dobrogea through our unique interpretation. Thank you for joining us on this journey!

In this episode of the Mada & Hugh Piano Duo Podcast, we dive deep into the world of performance anxiety with Dr. Robert Hall, a renowned psychiatrist and former professional trombonist. Learn how to manage and deal with stage fright with practical tips, personal stories, and expert advice. 🎹 Topics Covered: Understanding the biology behind performance anxiety Psychological and social factors affecting musicians Practical tips for managing anxiety, including preparation, beta blockers, and CBT The importance of a balanced lifestyle for mental health Personal insights and experiences from Dr. Hall’s career 🎹 Topics Covered: 0:00 - Introduction by Hugh and Mada 0:34 - Hugh and Mada discuss their personal experiences with performance anxiety 4:10 - Mada’s story of a memorable performance anxiety incident 8:10 - Introducing Dr. Robert Hall 8:39 - Dr. Hall shares his background as a musician and psychiatrist 12:30 - Understanding the universality of performance anxiety 14:43 - The biological basis of performance anxiety 17:18 - The importance of preparation and performance experience 20:54 - Dr. Hall’s personal performance experience with adrenaline management 24:40 - Practical tips for managing performance anxiety in the moment 29:05 - The role of beta blockers in managing performance anxiety 35:30 - Exploring cognitive behavioral therapy for performance anxiety 39:15 - Importance of positive reinforcement and supportive mentors 43:45 - The concept of “permission to fail” and personal anecdotes 50:00 - Lifestyle factors and their impact on performance anxiety 55:47 - Mada’s experience with receiving harsh criticism and using it as motivation 58:15 - Dr. Hall’s journey from music to medicine and his personal challenges 1:00:15 - Closing remarks and future episode tease 🎶 Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned professional, this episode offers valuable strategies to help you perform at your best. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insights on music and mental health! #PerformanceAnxiety #MusicianTips #MentalHealth #MadaAndHugh #DrRobertHall #ClassicalMusic #StageFright #MusicPodcast

Welcome to the Mada & Hugh Piano Duo Podcast, where we dive into the beautiful fusion of Romanian and Korean cultures through music, life, and love. Today, we’re exploring an unusual yet exciting topic: dating tips for Romanians and Koreans. Whether you’re currently dating or married, these tips can help enhance your relationship, drawing from our personal experiences.

Expressiveness and Communication

One of the first things Hugh noticed about Romanian women is their expressiveness and straightforward communication. Romanian culture encourages openness, making it clear what they feel and think. This can be refreshing and, at times, intense, but it's essential for fostering genuine connections. For Hugh, learning to appreciate and reciprocate this directness was key in building a strong relationship with Mada.

Assertiveness and Politeness

Madalina shared that while initial politeness and gentlemanly behavior are appreciated, Romanian women also value assertiveness. Being clear about your preferences and opinions shows confidence and respect, essential traits in Romanian culture. This balance between gentility and assertiveness helps in creating a dynamic and respectful relationship.

Falling in Love with the Culture

One of the significant aspects of dating someone from a different culture is taking an interest in their heritage. Hugh emphasized the importance of immersing oneself in the Romanian culture, whether it's learning the language, appreciating traditional music, or savoring the cuisine. This not only shows respect but also deepens the bond between partners.

The Role of Food

Food plays a vital role in cultural expression. For Mada and Hugh, exploring each other’s culinary traditions has been a delightful journey. Hugh's efforts in cooking Korean dishes and introducing Mada to Korean cuisine helped her appreciate his background. Similarly, Hugh’s love for Romanian food strengthened their connection. Sharing meals and culinary experiences can be a wonderful way to bridge cultural gaps and create lasting memories.

Words of Affection vs. Acts of Service

In Korean culture, actions often speak louder than words. Acts of service, like cooking, cleaning, and other gestures, are common ways to show love and care. Mada highlighted the importance of balancing this with verbal expressions of affection. While actions are crucial, expressing feelings through words can enhance understanding and emotional connection.

Patience

Both Mada and Hugh agree that patience is crucial in any relationship, especially in cross-cultural ones. Understanding and appreciating each other’s backgrounds, habits, and quirks takes time. Patience allows for growth, learning, and mutual respect, paving the way for a harmonious relationship.

Making an Effort

Making an effort to understand and integrate into each other’s cultural backgrounds is essential. This goes beyond general cultural knowledge to understanding the person as an individual. Every person relates differently to their culture, and recognizing this individuality helps in creating a deeper connection.

Humor is a universal language that can bridge many gaps. For Mada and Hugh, humor has played a significant role in their relationship. Whether it's making funny voices, sharing a love for cartoons like Peanuts and Calvin and Hobbes, or simply finding joy in everyday moments, humor helps in keeping the relationship light-hearted and joyful.

Dating someone from a different culture can be an enriching and rewarding experience. For those involved in Romanian-Korean relationships, these tips from Mada and Hugh can help in navigating the beautiful complexities of cross-cultural dating. Embrace the differences, appreciate the similarities, and always keep communication, patience, and effort at the forefront. And remember, a shared sense of humor can make the journey even more delightful.

For more insights and stories, stay tuned to the Mada & Hugh Piano Duo Podcast. We’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences, so feel free to share in the comments. Until next time, happy dating and learning!

Welcome back to the Mada & Hugh Piano Duo Podcast. In this episode, we conclude our in-depth interview series with the illustrious collaborative pianist and professor Lambert Orkis from Temple University. In this final part, we delve into Lambert’s transition from a solo career to collaborative piano, his long-standing partnership with violinist Anne-Sophie Mutter, and his insights on the evolving landscape of classical music.

Lambert Orkis began his musical journey as a solo pianist, but he quickly found his true calling in collaborative piano. In his words, this path suited him better and allowed him to thrive. He shared that while a solo career requires mastering many different aspects beyond just playing well, his strengths lay in working with ensembles and other musicians. This realization led him to a rich and fulfilling career in collaborative music, where he could leverage his unique talents and enjoy the camaraderie of playing with others.

One of the most significant collaborations in Lambert’s career has been with the renowned violinist Anne-Sophie Mutter. Their partnership spans nearly four decades, and Lambert describes their connection as a “musical marriage.” This deep, long-term collaboration is a testament to their mutual respect, understanding, and shared artistic vision. Their performances have captivated audiences worldwide, showcasing the profound synergy that can be achieved through dedicated collaboration.

Hugh expressed his admiration for Lambert’s youthful spirit and his passion for technology. Lambert’s enthusiasm for photography and the latest tech gadgets, like his new Mac Studio computer, highlights his forward-thinking mindset. He recognizes the importance of staying current with technological advancements and their role in the modern world of classical music. Lambert’s ability to blend traditional musical excellence with contemporary tools is a valuable lesson for young musicians navigating today’s complex landscape.

During the interview, Lambert offered invaluable advice for young pianists and musicians. He emphasized the need for entrepreneurial skills, technological proficiency, and a flexible mindset. According to Lambert, while there isn’t a fixed formula for success, being prepared, adaptable, and open to new opportunities can make a significant difference. He encouraged young musicians to build a diverse repertoire, engage with audiences, and continuously strive for excellence.

Lambert candidly shared some of the challenges he faced in his career. Despite premiering major piano concertos and performing in prestigious venues like Carnegie Hall, he encountered personal and professional hurdles. His journey underscores the importance of resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity. Lambert’s story is a powerful reminder that even the most successful musicians must navigate difficulties and setbacks on their path to greatness.

Lambert’s passion for technology extends beyond music. He is an avid photographer, capturing stunning images of birds with his Nikon camera. His love for Star Trek and its portrayal of endless possibilities further reflects his open-mindedness and curiosity. Lambert’s embrace of technology and new ideas is an inspiration for musicians to explore and integrate modern tools into their artistic practices.

As we conclude this interview series, we are deeply grateful to Lambert Orkis for sharing his incredible journey, wisdom, and insights. His career exemplifies the richness of collaborative music and the importance of staying adaptable and open to new experiences. Lambert’s story is a beacon of inspiration for aspiring musicians and a testament to the enduring power of music to connect and uplift.

Thank you for joining us on the Mada & Hugh Piano Duo Podcast. We hope you enjoyed this three-part interview series with the remarkable Lambert Orkis. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and insights from the world of classical music.