Inadequate Lines ...
Although I have never sat in on a lecture or a class given by my dear friend and colleague Michael Saffle, I have always known that he is a teacher with a great gift to inspire; the combination of deep and infectious enthusiasm and great knowledge and understanding lightly worn are the indisputable trademarks of a master mentor, and Michael Saffle's work, and the work of those he has encouraged and supported, remind us all always of the deep joy of learning.
Michael's devotion to Liszt and his works has been a lifelong labour of love, right outside and above the cut and thrust of petty educational rivalries; when the man makes a discovery, he is so thrilled to have made it, it is immediately imperative to him to share it: a generosity all too rare in academic life!
His help to me over the years of recording my Liszt series for Hyperion, and to me and my friend Michael Short, in our endeavours to produce an accurate and easily navigated thematic catalogue of Ferenc Liszt's works has been freely and cheerfully given, to our eternal gratitude.
I should love to write more, but if I don't get back to computer-setting several thousand Liszt themes, the book to which Michael Saffle is standing godfather will never be complete!
Michael, I salute you with great affection!
God Bless!
Leslie [Howard]
LONDON SW16 4JZ