The Heart of Collaboration in Classical Music

I recently visited Oktaven audiO recording studio for a session with Stanley Grill. The experience beautifully highlighted the artistry and collaboration inherent in classical music.

During this session, I worked alongside Allison Brewster Franzetti, a highly acclaimed pianist known for her virtuosity and musicality. Her career includes solo and chamber performances, participation in international festivals, collaborations with renowned artists, as well as contributions as a composer and author. Franzetti has performed at prestigious venues, released several albums, and worked with esteemed musicians and composers. She brought remarkable talent and flexibility to the session, providing insightful advice during rehearsal that made problem-solving seem effortless. Her zen-like approach to performing was truly inspiring.

Our engineer for the day was Ryan Streber, who was incredible at his craft. A master recording engineer, he studied composition with Milton Babbitt and Christopher Rouse at Juilliard (BMA 2001; MMA 2003). His supportive presence and keen ear for detail made everything flow seamlessly. The atmosphere in his studio was nothing short of inspiring, with its expansive room and warm acoustics meticulously designed to enhance classical and jazz music recordings. The back wall was lined with books and scores, creating an environment that felt both professional and deeply dedicated to the arts.

At the heart of the project was our composer, Stanley Grill, who has written more than 260 compositions. His music is inspired by poetry, drawing from a wide range of poets—including Rilke, Hart Crane, Lorca, Yeats, Celan, Frost, Williams, Dickinson, Teasdale, Ausländer, Levitt, Hikmet, Shevchenko, and many others—capturing numerous languages and traditions. Additionally, Grill has composed a small but distinctive collection of works rooted in Greek mythology, focusing on various deities and mythic figures such as Artemis (in "Artemis, Her Silver Bow"), Theia ("Ode to Theia"), Koios ("Koios Sings"), Gaia (in two works), and Orpheus (through Rilke’s "Sonnets to Orpheus"). Together, these themes reveal a composer deeply engaged with language, myth, and the expressive possibilities of art across cultures.

During my stay, I shared several meals with Stanley. Meeting him felt both humbling and deeply inspiring. His intelligence and artistic insight are so natural and unforced that being in his presence expands your understanding of what is possible—musically, intellectually, and in terms of what can be achieved with discipline and dedication. He speaks and thinks with a clarity that makes you aware of how much more there is to comprehend, yet he carries that depth with warmth and generosity rather than ego. Spending time with him was uplifting. I am grateful to have met someone whose perspective on the world inspires me to grow, learn, and create with greater intention.

I also met Stanley's wife, Renee. Our conversations flowed effortlessly, covering topics from parenting and gardening to adventures and politics, each revealing their openness, curiosity, and generous spirit. I was deeply moved by their open-heartedness, the sincerity with which they listened and shared, and the gentle wisdom woven into even the simplest moments. It was especially touching to witness the love they share for one another. Meeting their beloved cat, Atticus—who snuggles, responds when called, and accompanies Stanley on strolls outside—added a layer of sweetness that made the entire visit feel very special

My experience at Oktaven audiO recording studio underscored the profound connection between classical music and the love we infuse into every aspect of our work. From the meticulous care we take in our preparations to the respectful way we treat one another, every moment is steeped in compassion and dedication. In this environment, we become a family, united by our shared passion for art. It takes harmony and love to create something truly beautiful, and it's this spirit that resonates in every note we play and every composition we bring to life. Together, we not only create music but also foster a sense of belonging that enriches our artistic journey.