A renowned pianist and educator, known for his contributions to the development of American piano music and his influential teaching style.
Randolph Hokanson was a renowned American pianist and professor emeritus at the University of Washington in Seattle, celebrated for his captivating recordings of classical masters such as Bach, Schubert, Beethoven, Chopin, Liszt, and Mendelssohn.
Throughout his illustrious career, Hokanson gave over 100 performances, including the complete cycle of Beethoven sonatas, enthralling audiences with his technical prowess and emotional depth.
Born on June 22, 1915, in Bellingham, Washington, Hokanson was the fifth of eleven children of Swedish immigrants. He began playing the piano at the age of eight, and by fifteen, he was already giving recitals in Seattle and Victoria, British Columbia.
After high school, Hokanson pursued advanced studies in London on a scholarship, where he had the privilege of learning from esteemed pianists Harold Samuel, Myra Hess, and Carl Friedberg.
Hokanson's performing career spanned decades, during which he collaborated with prominent conductors such as Thomas Beecham, Pierre Monteux, Arthur Fiedler, Walter Susskind, and Milton Katims.
For eight years, he toured the United States and Canada, sharing his talents with diverse audiences. In 1949, he joined the University of Washington music faculty, where he taught for 35 years, inspiring generations of musicians.
In 2011, Hokanson published his memoir, With Head to the Music Bent: A Musician's Story, offering a glimpse into his remarkable life and career.
On June 21, 2015, the day before his 100th birthday, Hokanson performed a concert featuring pieces by Bach, Mozart, and Chopin, demonstrating his enduring passion for music.
Hokanson was married to composer Dorothy Cadzow from 1951 until her passing in 2001.
Randolph Hokanson passed away on October 18, 2018, at the age of 103, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances, inspiring teaching, and a profound impact on the world of classical music.
Randolph Hokanson's remarkable life and career serve as a testament to his dedication to the art of music. His contributions as a pianist, professor, and author continue to inspire future generations of musicians and music lovers alike.
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