Pianist Susan Aceto (bio below) performed an intimate concert at Weatherwatch Farm on Thursday September 16, the first of a series of inaugural events to launch our new Rural Retreat Program. Thirty of our most staunch supporters came out on a rainy evening to learn more about our hopes and plans and to enjoy a truly delightful performance by our dear friend. Susan’s program was:
J.S. Bach:Â Aria and first Variation from Goldberg Variations
W.A. Mozart:Â Rondo in D major (1786)
R. Schumann:Â Romance Op. 28, no. 2 in F sharp major
F. Chopin: Mazurkas Op 6, nos. 1, 2, and 3
Chopin:Â Â Nocturne Op 27, no. 1 in C sharp minor
Susan Aceto (née Johnson) is known and loved by many in the North Country because she grew up in Plattsburgh – her family has deep roots here, and several sibs still live and work in the area. She attended the Crane School of Music for her undergraduate degree in music and then went on to Eastman and McGill for graduate studies in piano and chamber music. Her talent, combined with her marriage to Tom Aceto, has given her a fascinating life. Tom, having served as vice president under Joseph Burke at SUNY Plattsburgh, moved upward in the administration of higher education in the state university systems of Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and New York. He capped his career with a stellar tenure as president of the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, for which he was awarded an honorary doctorate by Williams College. Â
Susan kept up with the rigorous demands of her art through many relocations, always teaching and performing while raising their two lovely sons, Jeff and Jonathan. Ultimately she taught piano and chamber music at Williams College, and directed the Smith House Concerts series at the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts. Now Susan and Tom divide their year between Arizona and Maine. Since she does not actively pursue a performance career, we value her rare appearances all the more….
