Memoir reveals pianist's tenacity, talent

MY NINE LIVES: A Memoir of Many Careers in Music. By Leon Fleisher and Anne Midgette. Doubleday. 325 pages. $26.

Leon Fleisher was an internationally known pianist celebrating his 20th anniversary on the concert stage when he developed numbness in his right hand. Playing with both hands was no longer an option or a source of income.

He then turned to teaching and conducting. Fleisher taught himself to play left handed and became known for his interpretations of works written for the left hand. Throughout the next three decades, he never gave up hope that proficiency with his right hand would return. Finally, at 66, a diagnosis of focal dystonia led him to Botox treatments. The injections mitigated the cramping, giving him the use of his right hand once again.

In "My Nine Lives," Fleisher writes candidly about his physical struggles, depression and despair, the dissolution of two marriages and his unremitting faith that he again would play with two hands. His insightful conversational style is easy to read and flows smoothly.

Written with Anne Midgette, chief classical music critic of The Washington Post, Fleisher details a maestro's nightmare: a musician unable to play music. Anecdotes about contemporary musicians and reflections on pieces of music significant to him fill the book. An extensive discography of his recordings is included.

At 82, Fleisher still tours the world. His memoir is a testament to his tenacity, passion and indomitable talent.