Lucien Leinfelder, the Pianist Who Played Through Parkinson’s

Friends and fans of concert pianist and SMU Meadows alumnus Lucien Leinfelder are invited to a premiere viewing of the new documentary film Lucien Leinfelder, the Pianist Who Played Through Parkinson's, at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital in Dallas, 8200 Walnut Hill Lane, on Tuesday, January 16, 2018.

Guests will have the opportunity to meet Leinfelder, who will be in attendance at the event. A reception begins at 5:30 p.m. in Texas Health’s Fogelson first floor foyer, followed by a 6:30 screening of the film in the Fogelson Auditorium. Although the screening is free, reservations are required and can be made by calling Texas Health Presbyterian at 214.345.7582.

The film chronicles the life and career of Leinfelder, a prominent classical concert pianist who has played to audiences throughout the U.S. and Europe. After receiving bachelor’s and master’s degrees in music from SMU (in 1955 and 1960, respectively), Leinfelder taught piano at the University in the late 1960s. He played concerts around the world, appeared alongside famous musicians and Hollywood starlets, and performed as a soloist with the Dallas Symphony. Then in 1999 he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s, a neurological disorder that affects movement, and told by doctors he would never be able to play again. Yet through persistence and talent, he continued to play, and for several years he has performed weekly for visitors and staff in the lobby of Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas, where he undergoes treatment.

“My years at SMU as both a student and instructor have been very important to my success as a performer and teacher,” said Leinfelder. “I feel so fortunate to have had the career I have had. Music has been a huge part of my life, and I am determined to keep playing as long as possible.”

Lucien Leinfelder, the Pianist Who Played Through Parkinson's was produced by SMU alumnus Art Greenhaw (B.A. Political Science ’76), a former student of Leinfelder’s and Grammy Award-winning musician best known for his work with the renowned Texas band, The Light Crust Doughboys. The film was directed by Dallas independent filmmakers Josh Knight and David Douglas.

For more information about Leinfelder’s battle with Parkinson’s, see article from Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas.

See the movie trailer for "Lucien Leinfelder, the Pianist Who Played Through Parkinson's."