R.I.P. Alfred Brendel (1931-2025)

Blue Lake Public Radio | By Foley Schuler

Published June 17, 2025 at 12:32 PM EDT

Farewell to a legend of the piano...

Music has lost one of its true legends with the passing of Alfred Brendel earlier today at the age of 94. One of the greatest pianists of his—and of all—time, he also did remarkable work as both a painter and poet, and was known for tempering his impeccable and soul-searching interpretations of Mozart, Beethoven and Schubert with the wonderful sense of humor and whimsy he often exhibited away from the piano. As we await full obituaries to appear with this still-breaking story, here are remembrances and appreciations from The Times, Gramophone, and BBC Music Magazine.

Foley Schuler

Encouraged by creative parents, Foley began his music career at age 7, studying violin with Jean Manning at North Muskegon Public Schools. As a Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp camper, he became Blue Lake Public Radio’s first high school intern. Foley earned an English Literature degree from Hope College, and Masters in Fine Arts degree in Creative Writing from the Warren Wilson College. He has performed with the West Michigan (formerly West Shore) Symphony; served on the English Department faculty at Muskegon Community College, and been the Music, Art & Theatre reviewer for the Muskegon Chronicle. He follows his love of the arts around the globe, but says, “There is no place like the Blue Lake setting, sharing extraordinary music with our listeners.” Foley hosts Blue Lake Public Radio’s weekday classical music from 1 to 4 p.m. and “Sunday on Blue Lake”.

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