Classic FM surveyed Australian audiences asking them for their favourite works for the piano, here are the five composers who had the highest number of works present in this top 100 ranking:   5. Robert Schumann Robert Schumann, along with his wife Clara Schumann, composed many notable piano works. Clara, a distinguished pianist in her [...] Read More... The post What are Australian audiences’ top five composers for the piano? appeared first on Piano ..read more

“For a performance to feel alive, you always need to be communicating with an audience.” Lee Dionne, one of the four pianists featured at Out West Piano Fest 2024, brings his collaborative spirit and passion for connection to the festival. Known for his engaging performances, Lee discusses the unique opportunities of performing in intimate, focused [...] Read More... The post 5 Questions to Lee Dionne appeared first on Piano ..read more

Starting piano at six, Jeonghwan Kim has captivated audiences in Berlin, Hamburg, and Aarhus with his virtuosity. First prize-winner at the 2023 Sydney International Piano Competition, Jeonghwan shares his excitement ahead of his nine-date national tour in Australia across SA, WA, and NSW.   1. You recently won the First Prize and Eileen Joyce Best [...] Read More... The post 5 Questions to Jeonghwan Kim appeared first on Piano ..read more

While farewells are often bittersweet, we remember the legacy left behind as a true gift. After 48 years working directly and indirectly with the Sydney International Piano Competition (since 1976), Chairman of the Board and arts management visionary, Virginia Braden OAM has hung up her proverbial boots and passed the helm to Tracie Elvidge, current Board Member and business and finance professional. Virginia has been pivotal in the management and governance of the Sydney International Piano Competition and was elected Chairman in 2017. She co-ordinated the first and second  competitions ..read more

Enhancing the Melodies – The Importance of Piano Technicians: Insights from the 2023 Sydney International Piano Competition  The world of classical music is a realm of timeless beauty and transcendent emotion. It is a space where the harmonious blending of instrumental sounds weaves intricate tapestries of melody, rhythm, and expression. In the heart of this musical universe, the Sydney International Piano Competition stands as a testament to virtuosity and artistry. The pianists take center stage, but behind the scenes, an orchestra of dedicated technicians and piano companies collaborat ..read more

Renowned pianist Andrey Gugnin’s upcoming recitals in Melbourne and Sydney promise a captivating journey through diverse musical landscapes. Gugnin’s approach to curating his programs is driven by his genuine passion for the pieces he selects. In this exclusive interview, Gugnin discusses his musical philosophy, his selection process for this unique performance, his impressions of Australia, and how he maintains his artistry while constantly on the move.     Embracing Passion and Musical Exploration  At the heart of Gugnin’s musical philosophy lies the principle of playing ..read more

Sydney Symphony Orchestra Viola player and composer, Justin Williams was awarded a jury prize in the 2021 ‘Composing the Future’ competition with his solo piano composition ‘Three Intermezzi’.  Let’s hear more from Justin on the inspiration behind his new work:   Composing the Future  Tell us a bit about yourself. Where do you live, what do you do and how did you discover Composing the Future Competition? I live in Sydney with my wife, Lerida and our Golden Retriever ‘Tuppence’! I play the viola in the Sydney Symphony Orchestra and with the Tinalley String Quartet, and I love to ..read more

Seasoned composer Martin Lass was awarded a jury prize in the 2021 ‘Composing the Future’ competition with his solo piano composition ‘Journey to Sydney – Snapshots from an Uncommon Childhood’’. This poignant work had its debut performance in Melbourne by pianist Ian Munro in September. Let’s hear more from Martin on the inspiration behind his new work: Composing the Future  Tell us about yourself. How did you discover the ‘Composing the Future’ Competition? I currently live on the Gold Coast. Born in America, my family emigrated to Australia when I was 11 and we have lived here ever sinc ..read more

Sydney born Peggy Polas is a deserving jury winner in the 2021 ‘Composing the Future’ competition. Her solo piano composition ‘Sonata: Ode’, inspired by an ancient Sumerian poem, is given its debut performance by pianist Bernadette Harvey on 2 December in Coff’s Harbour, marking the 45th anniversary of The Sydney. Book HERE. Let’s hear more from Peggy on the inspiration behind her new work:  Composing the Future  Tell us about yourself. How did you discover the ‘Composing the Future’ competition? I’ve been based in south-west Sydney for a long time. I’m a composer, casual academ ..read more

Meet Tristan Coelho, winner of a jury prize in the 2021 ‘Composing the Future’ competition. As well as a generous cash prize, Tristan’s solo piano work Ice Monuments was chosen to be performed by pianist Kristian Chong, who co-judged the ‘Composing the Future’ competition. Let’s hear more from Tristan on the inspiration behind his new work: Composing the Future  Tell about yourself. How did you discover the ‘Composing the Future’ competition? I’m a Sydney-based composer and music educator. I write music for ensembles and solo instrumentalists and also love combining this with exploring th ..read more