Kenneth Cooper

Harpsichordist, pianist, musicologist, and conductor Kenneth Cooper is a leading specialist in the music of the 18th century and an exciting and versatile performer. Original, vintage, pen and ink, "on-the-spot" illustration by George 'Georges' Krishizki. The hand drawn illustration has been signed by Cooper and additionally signed, dated and titled by Krishizki: "Georges / 1980 / Kenneth Cooper playing Halian Concerto, BWV 941 by J.S. Bach."

Renowned for his improvisations and his expertise in ornamentation, long-lost 18th century arts, Cooper has revived many musical works, lending them extraordinary authenticity as well as renewed vitality. The possessor of a PhD in musicology from Columbia University, he is on the faculty there, as well as at the Manhattan School of Music. Director of the Berkshire Bach Ensemble, he has been featured on Live From Lincoln Center and has been heard as soloist with the Little Orchestra Society, Detroit Symphony, and Mostly Mozart Festival.

George 'Georges' Krishizki (March 22, 1924 – December 20, 2001), Russian-Polish-American illustrator who came to the U.S. in 1949. While he earned acclaim for his renderings of the city’s architectural landmarks, it was his on-the-spot drawings of musicians in performance that attracted an especially appreciative audience. In a 1973 article published in conjunction with two simultaneous exhibitions, Georges explained the genesis of his long-running engagement with the concert hall: “I’ve always enjoyed going to concerts, and one day I decided it would be fun to combine my interests in music and art and make sketches of musicians during performances.”  Indeed, the most remarkable feature of Georges’ oeuvre, apart from the astounding range of performers who gladly expressed their approval and appreciation by signing, is the skill with which the drawings are accomplished.

This original pen and ink illustration, measuring approximately 9 x 12, on heavy-weight sketch paper, is in fine condition with some light overall toning. Its verso is blank and clean.