Beyond 88 Keys: The Music of Michael Arnowitt

Vermont pianist Michael Arnowitt is, on the basis of this plain but affecting documentary by Susan Bettmann and Jeff Farber, an interesting and likable young man. Arnowitt, a classical recitalist, who likes jazz, and is also a progressive political activist, suffers--sadly--from a degenerative eye disease that could result in blindness, but while you can hardly fail to feel both admiration and sympathy, candor compels one to add that, at least on the basis of the musical excerpts included here, his technique seems somewhat limited. Arnowitt plays Bach and Mozart too romantically, and his dexterity doesn't appear to be quite equal to the rigors of a showpiece like a transcription of Stravinsky's Petrouchka (his Brahms, on the other hand, is beautifully inflected). As a result, the encomia delivered by various friends and fans come across as well-meant but excessive. Still, while Arnowitt may not be the greatest virtuoso in the world, his dedication to his ideals and devotion to his playing in the face of physical obstacles can't help but impress, and his story is unquestionably inspiring. A strong optional purchase. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek)