Syosset Library's Own Sound of Music

A staid lecture be damned, Dr. Judith Alstadter turned Thursday's presentation at the Syosset Public Library into her own version of Musical Chairs.

Alstadter instructed the audience during one piano performance to stand each time she stroke a soprano, alto or bass chord.

"It makes the piece more fun by having the audience interact and stand while I play," she said.

Alstadter's lecture series, "Listen to This: A Guide to What to Listen for in Music," runs through Aug. 5 at the library. During her presentation, the concert pianist and recording artist also discussed the various periods of music, such as baroque, classical and contemporary.

Teaching the many elements and forms of music, ranging from melody and rhythm to sonata and concerto, Alstadter played the piano and showed videos of performances featuring the works of Vivaldi, Bach, Mozart and Beethoven.

"I wanted them to get a deeper appreciation of music, whether they are experienced or new music lovers," Alstadter said. "I also wanted to share an enhanced listening instruction through my demonstration at the piano. I am happy to share my enthusiasm and love for music with others."

Syosset's Diana Challed was impressed with Dr. Alstadter's array of musical knowledge.

"I've always wanted to learn more about the best way to listen to music," Challed said. "The program was great. Dr. Alstadter did a wonderful job explaining everything."

In addition to speaking and performing in Nassau and Suffolk counties, Alstadter has tickled the ivories in Europe and the Caribbean. She has released several CDs, which include Vienna to Broadway, Women Composers: Romantic to Ragtime, The Poetic Piano: Spirituality and Music and Judith Alstadter Plays Gabriel Fauré.

Alstadter is a graduate of Juilliard and has a doctorate from the Yale University School of Music. A well-known music educator, she is affiliated with several universities and colleges, including Pace University and Five Towns College.

The free series runs on Thursdays, July 22 and 29 and Aug. 5, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Alstadter will perform in the concert "A Piano Sampler: From Beethoven to Bernstein" on Saturday, July 31 at 7:30 p.m. For more information about the concert, call 516-921-7161 or visit www.syossetlibrary.org. For more information about Alstadter, visit www.judithalstadter.com.