I will soon be performing two concerts at London’s new Bechstein Hall, centred around the music of Chopin and Ravel on their respective birthdays. The first, on 1st March, will celebrate Chopin, while the second, on 7th March, will mark

Clara Wieck Schumann was one of the nineteenth century’s greatest pianists and composers. Over the course of her remarkable career, she provided indispensable feedback to her husband Robert Schumann, as well as her lifelong friend Johannes Brahms. Her strong opinions

Russian-born pianist Pavel Kolesnikov is lauded for his captivating performances and unique approach to classical music. With a distinctive style that blends technical prowess with deep musicality, Kolesnikov has become a prominent figure on the international concert scene. Kolesnikov brings

As a musician and composer, Edward Elgar was largely self-taught, learning through experimentation and playing in local ensembles. His music is characterised by its emotional depth, rich orchestration, and a sense of nostalgia that captures a time when the British

Pianist Arcadi Volodos has ascended to the pinnacle of the classical music world with a mastery that captivates both critics and audiences alike. Renowned for his extraordinary technique, rich palette of tones, and profound musical insight, Volodos has carved a

Organist Johannes Geffert has made profound and far-reaching contributions to the world of organ music. Renowned for his virtuosic technique and scholarly approach to the instrument, Geffert’s performances are celebrated for their clarity, expressive depth, and interpretive rigour. Geffert’s influence

During his life, Dimitri Shostakovich was, despite being a very public figure, a very private person. After his death in 1975, the publishing of many memoirs, letters, and diaries relating to his life by those who knew him have offered

On 21 February 1972, President Richard M. Nixon arrived in China for an official State Visit. He was the first U.S. president to visit the People’s Republic of China since it was established in 1949. The principal aim was to