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Kris Becker is one of the most interesting and dynamic young pianists I have heard in a long time!

Kris Becker is a quintessentially American piano virtuoso, in that he has mastered the traditional technique and repertoire, but finds himself equally at home in a variety of other keyboard stylings, such as rock, jazz, and ragtime. He brings an impassioned artistry, coupled with a sensitive understanding, to his musically and culturally informed performances.

His musicianship is first rate. I am most supportive of this charismatic young artist.

The inspiration behind our Alter Ego Season, which will present four of the nation's most innovative and versatile musicians, is pianist Kris Becker. Few young musicians have honed the ability to flow between genres as effortlessly and successfully as Kris. Still fewer possess the savvy to pull it off in a concert setting.

Kris Becker has it all. I heard his live performance of Ravel's Gaspard de la Nuit, in which he not only made easy weather of the daunting technical hurdles, but captured the quicksilver nature of Ravel's sound world with imagination and a rapturous palette of colors. His Bach Two-Part Inventions were equally captivating, poised, bouyant, nuanced and altogether displaying the thoughtful maturity of a seasoned master. His own compositions were ingenious and charming.

I just have to tell you [Kris] how much you TRULY touched my heart and inspired me tonight (and everyone else). I thank you for your personality, musicianship, and ability to involve and interact so well with your audience in all areas. musically, spiritually, and on a personal level. It is truly heartfelt.

Seeing Becker perform is understanding what it means to create art in the moment. There is something fresh and spontaneous about his approach, like the piece is taking shape in the present and the audience has the privilege to be a witness to this experience.

Kris Becker is a rare kind of musical talent. He not only is a beautiful pianist, but also a fine musician and performer. I believe he is destined for a brilliant future.

All of Kris' playing is thoughtfully shaped and lovingly shared…confident, strong, and yet sensitive and fresh [his] interpretations are, how secure and excitingly totally in control technically, and musically, over such a range of style.

It is both stimulating and challenging to be on the stage with a pianist of Kris' caliber.

I enjoyed the Sunday night Evans Concert immensely, and I would be very surprised if Kris Becker doesn't become a nationally known concert pianist. Seldom have I seen an artist so in sync with his/her instrument as he. His technical skills are impressive, as are his musical skills. I sat there in awe of his prodigious abilities and enjoyed the entire concert from the depths of my being. I will be looking forward to the next event, but I think that the Sunday's will be hard to top.

My friend and I were delighted with your [Kris'] concert. Great selections, wonderful individual compositions (my favorite was Groovin'), fantastic musical ability and facility on the keyboard, a noticeable dedication to the "good in life," and a most enjoyable personality. You have gained a new fan.

Kris plays with compelling skill and flair.

Kris is an outstanding pianist and a superb musician. The high quality of his musical and technical abilities are matched by his sense of purpose.

Every person in our sanctuary went away changed toinight. Thank you for bringing him to us.

I was especially taken with Kris' interpretation of the Bach Inventions. In my 27 years of teaching, I've taught and heard these pieces innumerable times. At my studio, I have several recordings to play for students, [but] none of these has nearly the impact of his. I must say Kris' recording definitely will be the interpretation of choice from now on. His phrasing, articulation, musicality, energy, tone quality, and especially the joy that comes across in his performance is amazing and totally unique. Thank you, Kris, for making a valuable contribution to my studio and my teaching.

Kris Becker's brilliant and moving performance of the Beethoven 4th Concerto made him an easy choice for the first prize in the [Shepherd School of Music Concerto] competition.

The Kent/Blossom Chamber Orchestra, conducted by Cleveland Orchestra assistant conductor Andrew Grams, finished the program with the Suite from "Appalachian Spring", a performance especially notable for the crisp, vibrant playing in the clarinet and piano. [Kris Becker on piano.]

Kris Becker is an exceptionally fine pianist, both as collaborator and soloist. In particular, I was quite impressed by his performance of the Rachmaninoff Cello Sonata which showed utter command, sensitive interweaving, and a dynamic performer's flair.

It is easy for me to associate Kris Becker with my multiple good fortune. Not only have I been able to be a part of several intimate audiences for private concerts, but I have been able to share the experience with my wife, and children and grandchildren. Each experience has been a self-contained journey. Each experience beckons the listener to find a position in the room to witness his hands, and to wonder at the stories and textures and tastes and deep emotions they convey as they merge with the [instrument]. Kris knows the history and the musicology. Much more than that, he has the touch—the remarkable ability to make the music bloom inside his rapt listeners. His skill makes each of us a partner in the making of meaning. Never miss a chance to find your music in his capable hands.