After completing my undergraduate study, like many students in Prof. Wu’s studio, I moved upstairs to study with Prof. Scholz. Earlier in his career, he and his brother Heinz, were an active piano duo, performing under the batons of conductors such as Dimitri Mitropoulos, Herbert von Karajan, Bruno Walter and Arturo Toscanini. They also collaborated on an authoritative edition of Mozart’s piano work. Heinz later became the President of Mozarteum in Salzburg.[1]
If we were to meet today, I would have many questions on Mozart’s work for him. Unfortunately, because of my linguistic limits, there were few verbal exchanges between us back then. Prof. Scholz would mark fingering, phrasing and pedaling on my scores. I loved those moments when he would demonstrate. Free flowing music just came out of the piano. I learned a lot listening to his singing and playing.
Having lived in Taiwan for almost two decades, Prof. Scholz still preferred to prepare European style meals for himself. Occasionally, smells of freshly baked pastries would come through the kitchen door. I always imagined how he worked on batter or dough with his limber fingers. Sweet distractions.
I began preparing for applications to graduate schools in the States in 1982. When the time came to ask for his recommendations, he took a look of the forms and asked: “Why are you going? What do you want to do?” His questions frightened and confused me.
I was frightened that he might not write the letters for me. I was confused because, up to that moment, I never questioned what my next steps would be after undergraduate study. Under Martial Law, the establishment of new schools and degree programs was restricted. Whoever wished to pursue further studies in music must go aboard. It was a common path to get a graduate degree abroad, return to Taiwan and teach—hopefully in a college. Matter of fact, I had promised mom to earn a graduate degree quickly so I could get a good teaching position. Could there be other options outside of teaching?
I did not know if Prof. Scholz posted the same questions to other students in similar situation; I did not know if he asked me because he didn’t think I was ready. And, I had no answers for either question. With Prof. Wu’s urge, he did provide me with references. I chose to attend Cleveland Institute of Music. However, his questions kept coming back to haunt me.
In summer of ‘85, having received a Master of Music in Piano Performance, I went to see him while in Taiwan visiting family. I played part of Ravel G major Concerto for him. We discussed the possible influence of jazz music in Ravel’s approach. He asked me about my upcoming activities and plans. This time, I was able to tell him that I liked to continue to pursue academic research and to develop my collaborative skills. He nodded and said, “Now you know what you want.”
The most valuable lesson that Prof. Scholz taught me was to think like a professional. Musicians live to express and to serve. Every step that we take professionally and every hour that we spend in preparation must be purposeful.