From OZ to OZ and back…composer-pianist-organist Marsha Doyenne grew up in Kansas, migrated to Australia in 1994, then moved back to Kansas in 2003. She has been playing and performing all her life, but creating new music is her passion! Marsha’s eclectic background - she was the first American organist to perform in the Beijing Concert Hall in 1990; was winner of the 1998 Kansas Federation of Music Clubs Composer Award for Dream Fragments; dual Australian and US citizenship - and travels in Europe and Asia have provided inspiration for her music.
After Marsha moved to Australia, she learned about a new piano being developed by Wayne Stuart. She wondered if the innovations and improvements would change the way she would write for the instrument, so she went to visit Wayne in Newcastle, Australia to experience it for herself.
The Stuart piano has 97 keys and an additional pedal. Every note in this piano produces absolutely crystal clear tones - gone are the muddy base notes and tinny upper notes of most pianos - and the sustain capabilities produce a unique third dimension sound effect. Marsha felt that this piano had special healing qualities and decided to someday record on the Stuart & Sons piano.
Marsha's musical influences were Bach, Chopin, Debussy, and Poulenc. Her music showcases innovative harmonics, lyrical melodies, a flair for the dramatic, and a sense of humor! She loves the effects that are possible on the Stuart & Sons pianos and is writing more music for this instrument. Visit her website and stay tuned for future projects!
Read more...