Real vacations followed: from the end of July to mid-August as well as the rare company of my husband, I had the visit of some very dear friends. Among others there was Janice - we went to the same primary nun’s school, in Rio - who needed a short but deserved break from a lot of pressure, back in Paris; we had such fun and talked and talked… Then my young and talented Czech friend, pianist and composer Adam Skoumal came from Prague for a few days, mainly to play his new Concerto for me. It was most exciting to play 2nd piano for him, discovering this lyrical, evocative and passionate work and if some day it deservedly became part of the repertoire, ‘history in the make’ actually happened in my house! And how honoured and delighted I was when he dedicated it to me! I can hardly wait for the chance to perform it! Bravo and thanks, Adam!  

It’s always impossibly sad to leave my place in the South of France at the end of Summer – those who know the place understand why I call it my ‘haven of peace’ - but after the recital and master Classes at Uppingham School - as I half-expected, no CDs for sale here either - I had committed to giving lessons in London, before my trip to the Far-East in early September, therefore I knew that this was: ‘Good-bye, Meynardon’! Until next time.

Back to my beautiful Steinways at home, I enjoyed giving lessons to José, Ron (good luck for the ‘Chopin’!) and the charming and talented Manon, a new recruit from Oxford! I also managed another quick trip to Paris and had the possibility of seeing my two adored daughters, whom I miss so much before. Then, off to the Far East for the 1st Hong Kong International Piano Competition wondering if this time I would enjoy being in the Jury: with Ashkenazy as chairman and names like Fleisher, Graffman, Krainev and Rogé as jurors, surely Music would be discussed ?

Let’s wait and see.