I came across an article I wrote in 1996 that had to do with musical conceptions and performances that did not include the physical presence of an audience. One inspiration for this article was a poem by Robert Browning, a portion of which reads:

Greetings to you, with optimistic hopes for your health and outlook. As the days grow warmer as summer deepens, we of course miss the excitement we all feel as we anticipate the new Pianofest season, with great concerts, new participants from around the world, and a season of musical illumination, learning, and gatherings in the beautiful Hamptons.

The health and safety of the Pianofest Family — students, staff, teachers, trustees, community partners, and the members of our audience — is our highest priority. COVID-19 is impacting all of us in unprecedented ways, and we share a deep concern for the individuals and communities grappling with its effects. Given this rapidly changing environment, we have decided to cancel our 2020 summer season.

As we welcome a festive holiday season ahead, we wanted to take a moment to reflect on our gratitude for your being a part of our musical community that enriches our lives not only during the summer weeks, but reaches across the world in a way that nurtures our blossoming performers and the appreciation of their collective global audiences. Our growing visibility and reach are evidenced by the stature of both our student performers and our distinguished visiting faculty, and the viewership of our live global streaming events.