Tribute from Khari Joyner
Khari Joyner, Assistant Professor at Baldwin Wallace University
I started my time with Mr. Krosnick in 2009, and I can absolutely say he is the single reason I not only decided to attend The Juilliard School, but what kept me there for what would become 7.5 beautiful years of curiosity, exploration, and nothing but pure music and art study. I had the privilege to study so many works-- I recall my first studio class as a freshman performing Bach's E-flat Suite and studying later that year with him Barber Concerto; his fondly recalling his own dear Luigi Silva after guiding me through the 24 Paganini-Silva caprices (what a project!) and beyond that, the most densely written orchestral music, chamber music, literature, art, EVERYTHING.
There are simply no words to describe what impact he had on me over our time together. I looked forward to EVERY single lesson, coaching, interaction on the elevator-- time in his studio 513 was absolutely a joy, even on days I was feeling the lowest energy or emotionally.
I witnessed magic watching JSQ rehearse always every week before my lesson time; hearing Mr. Krosnick share his love of his dear colleagues Bobby Mann, Seymour Lipkin, Gil Kalish.. his love of orchestras, New York Philharmonic, The Cleveland Orchestra.. he loved his students dearly, his family, his presence to literally EVERY single recital of mine and countless others, (Even the non-required ones)... we tackled additional repertoire, from Janacek, Kodaly, Schnittke, Schubert, Chopin.. one of his favorite memories was recalling one of his own favorite performances of all time.. Greenhouses' interpretation of Schubert B-flat Trio slow movement with the Beaux Arts Trio.
But most importantly, he taught me how and what it means to "show up." To be fully vested at every step of the way in performance, practice, in life…heart, mind, and soul. And he always knew exactly how to say something in a way that was more profound than I could imagine. He taught me what true artistry looks like. He taught me resilience.
I had the privilege in 2014 when beginning my DMA to serve as one of his Teaching Assistants, and from then on did he help me discover my own passion for teaching, for which I would not be where I am without him today. The friends I have made and colleagues, somehow intertwined with this amazing individual. Of many performance and post-recital photos, at this time I post just one of my favorite memories at his "annual" studio cookouts (man could he make the best Mapo Tofu and Salmon!)
I last saw Mr. K on March 5 this year, stopping by after a long day of entrance auditions but nevertheless nerding out about the First Janacek String quartet which he loved and was ecstatic when I mentioned I was performing it!
My heart goes out to his beautiful family, and Mr. Krosnick, THANK YOU. THANK YOU for 8 wonderful years, your 51 years of service to Juilliard, your service at the helm as chair, your wisdom, guidance, and for believing in each and every one of your students. Thank you for teaching me the power and meaning of "showing up".
Rest easy, and can't wait to greet you with the "bear hug" one day yet again.