Just
29 years old, the Central New York native has consistently made a vivid impression
wherever he has played. His recent appearances in Paris, Tokyo, Leipzig, Brussels
and Luxembourg have received praise for their striking combination of "unbridled
temperament with perfect control" (Mitteldeutsche Zeitung). Russo has
particularly made a name for himself through an individual sense of programming
that shares a 21st century sensibility with the audience.
As a Performing Artist in Residence, Russo will be available for individual instruction with advanced piano students and will assist in the College’s efforts to further develop its music curriculum and recruit adjunct faculty. On campus he will administer and expand the Music Journeys program, and make Music Journeys visiting artists more available to Le Moyne students in addition to the work they do in the public schools. One potential new initiative is a summer camp that would be started in 2006 to serve advanced high school students interested in American music. The position will also allow Russo to maintain his professional concert career and he will also play at certain Le Moyne functions.