Legendary Concert technician and author, Franz Mohr, visited New Orleans as part of his book signing tour this year. His book entitled “My life with the great pianists” chronicles his career spanning more than a quarter-century as chief concert technician for the world’s finest piano builder, Steinway & Son’s of New York.
In his book, Mr. Mohr helps us to understand the quest for perfection and sensitivity expressed in the lives of a select group of individuals, in the crafting of a piano, and in all of life. As the close colleague of legendary musicians such as Horowitz, Rubenstein, Gould, Serkin, and many others, Franz Mohr has attended to their instruments, making delicate adjustments that affect tone, balance, and other characteristics of sound.
“I play more at Carnegie Hall than anybody else,” says Mohr, “but I have no audience.” That was different Monday evening, when over 100 guests attended a short program recital performed by Steinway Artist Faina Lushtak at Barnes and Nobel prior to Mr. Mohr’s discussion of his book and book-signing.
Tuesday, Mr. Mohr conducted a technical seminar for members of the Piano Technicians Guild which drew attendees from three states.
As a committed Christian, Mr. Mohr was also pleased to have had the opportunity to share his personal testimony with members of First Baptist of New Orleans at their beautiful sanctuary located on Canal Boulevard.