In memory of LESTER SENTER WILSON RIP
A tribute to a woman who has a major place in my heart, as well as in the hearts of many pianists who came to know her through the Nena Wideman International Piano Competition, which she directed for many years.
Dr. Lester Senter Wilson - an opera singer, a music lover, a person that dedicated her life to helping others. She had endless energy towards helping the young pianists that came to compete at the competition. Many of whom kept in touch with her after the competition. Her goal was to see the pianists grow, develop, receive opportunities to perform, and fulfill their potential.
I won the Wideman piano competition in 1996, while studying at the Peabody Conservatory of Music. Since then I played countless of concerts which were related to Lester directly or indirectly. Each time I would play a concert in New York, Lester will make sure I come first to Mississippi and/or Louisiana and try out the program. I know so many Churches in Jackson Mississippi, as well as Shreveport Louisiana…. I had a recital and masterclass in the University in Hattiesburg MS. I also played at a mention up in northern Mississippi, as well as in South Arkansas.
And if it was not “just” recitals then Lester would put on a show, a celebration with the Shreveport Symphony! She invited several of the previous Wideman winners to perform with the orchestra. Calling it “heavy medal” concert - five winners performed five different piano concerti. It was an evening that cannot be forgotten. At other occasions she would put together a concert with 16 pianists playing on 8 pianos.
There are many highlights in my concert life that Lester initiated. I remember a concert together with another winner - Stanislav Ioudenitch. Lester had an idea to do the concert in honor of two leaders in the Jackson community as a way of saying “thank you” to them, as well as draw a crowd. We had nearly a 1000 people coming to hear Stanislav and myself performing solo and together.
Many times Lester organized a TV interview the day before the concert. To this day I am not sure why, but she seemed to have a fondness for the 6am shows…. Coming to pick me up at 5:15am with hot coffee, checking that I put my tie correctly which was very important to her. She never lost any energy to do anything and everything all the time.
Lester had a deep love for her country. She was delighted to teach me what is southern hospitality. Coming to stay with Lester and her husband meant a luxury 4-5 days vacation at a Spa resort with all-you-can-eat delicatessen, concentrated practice, rich conversations and a good drink. We would talk every week. She wanted to know about my family, my goals, my frustrations, and where she can help.
In her last few years her condition deteriorated. After her husband passed away she rapidly became dependent. This was very difficult for her. The last time we met was when I came to play again with the Mississippi symphony. Although she already lived in an assisted living facility and lost her short term memory, her long term memory remained. She came to the concert. We hugged and talked and took a picture.
Lester was the closest friend. She became a family to me. May her memory be blessed and her life be celebrated.
I miss you! ❤️
