PIANIST IN 80S TO GIVE RECITAL.

Byline: Angela Randazzo Daily News Staff Writer

Retired attorney William G. Israel was a child when he first learned to play the piano. But it wasn't until retiring from his law practice a few years ago that he rediscovered his gift for music.

On Saturday, the 82-year-old pianist will share his find during a recital fund-raiser for the New West Symphony.

``I consider myself among the best octogenarian pianists in Ventura County who have been studying for two years and are wearing a pacemaker,'' said Israel.

The attorney, who retired in 1997, and his wife, Nancy, have lived in Thousand Oaks for five years and have been active as volunteers and supporters of the regional symphony.

Israel's musical adventure began when he was 8 years old and he started taking piano lessons. He quit at the age of 11. But while his formal training ended, Israel discovered that he could play by ear and began playing popular songs at parties.

He continued to enjoy playing by ear throughout the years. But after retiring from his law practice, he decided to again take lessons.

Israel started studying with Thousand Oaks teacher Dana Southwell, who focused his talent and encouraged him to play more advanced works by the great composers. After Southwell temporarily stopped teaching, Israel began studying with pianist and teacher Edward Francis.

``He is a serious student and practices for long hours,'' said Francis. ``He has a musical ear and an excellent memory of the great songs of the '30s and '40s.''

The piano recital will consist of a mixture of Chopin preludes and waltzes, a Beethoven rondo and Scott Joplin ragtime. Following the recital, there will be a catered dinner and an after-dinner sing-a-long of old favorites, accompanied by Israel at the piano.

``Whatever the recital may lack in the way of true concert quality will be made up with real good fun,'' said Israel.

The recital will be at 6 p.m. Saturday at the Edwards Francis Studio, 1304 Marian Ave., Thousand Oaks. The admission price is $100. The money raised at the recital will be matched by a contribution from a member of New West Symphony's board of directors. For reservations, call [phone].