Guests- pianist, Steven Blier & FSHD advocate, George Pollock

This month’s radio show guest is Steven Blier, a pianist and go-to coach for some of the world’s most celebrated singers. Joining us also will be George Pollock, to tell us about his experiences riding in the cross-continental Race Across America this summer with Team FSHD Cycling.

In an interview with the New York Times, Steven says “Muscular dystrophy is not something I would recommend. But it is an amazing teacher. It shows you what you are made of. To live your life in a wheelchair, you have to man-up. To go on stage takes some guts. But you find your confidence and you become your own advocate.”

Mr. Blier enjoys an eminent career as an accompanist and vocal coach. His recital partners have included Renée Fleming, Cecilia Bartoli, Samuel Ramey, Lorraine Hunt Lieberson, Susan Graham, Jessye Norman, and José van Dam, in venues ranging from Carnegie Hall to La Scala. He is also on the faculty of The Juilliard School and has been active in encouraging young recitalists at summer programs, including the Wolf Trap Opera Company, Santa Fe Opera, and the San Francisco Opera Center.  

Mr. Blier’s extensive discography includes the premiere recording of Leonard Bernstein’s Arias and Barcarolles (Koch International), which won a Grammy Award.