Serkin writes to his colleague Eugene List: As much as I appreciate the luncheon invitation, and as much as I would like to accept it, I feel I should be practicing all morning and not indulge in such pleasures as seeing all my friends.

Rudolf Serkin was an acclaimed Bohemian-born pianist of international fame. He is best remembered for his interpretations of Beethoven and for his role in the founding of the Marlboro Music School and Festival.