Sydney International Piano Competition 2008 reveals some true gems
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The Sydney International Piano Competition 2008 is currently underway and from what I hear there are some real gems coming out of this years series.
I attended the 2000 competition and was bowled over by the sheer intensity of the demands made on the competitors; each must give recitals of up to 50 minutes as well as ensemble playing plus perform etudes, preludes, sonata’s and concerto’s - all from memory of course. I don’t know how they do it, the pressure must be incredible.
As talented as these pianists are there are some who particularly stand out; there are also those who make it through to the coveted finals but somehow seem to disappear afterwards. That’s fame for you - it can be a fleeting thing…
This year a young Japanese pianist, Tomoki Kitamura ( pictured ), has been spellbinding in his performances to date. At 17 years of age this young man is standing at the threshold of greatness so extraordinary is his playing and his effect on audiences. ‘The real thing’ is what he is being called - forget about needing to throw superlatives around; so much is said about so many but when one comes along and the music speaks for itself…how could mere words suffice?
Australian composer Phillip Wilcher tells me that there are other treasures making a huge impact on competition goers; Charlie Albright, 19 years of age and American, whose playing is ‘most memorable’ and, like Tomoki, has been playing since the age of three. Also Mariangela Vacatello (pictured) and Marco Ciampi, both 26 from Italy - no-one can doubt the passion of the Italians when it comes to music.
Nor for that the fire and spirit of the Spanish Jose Menor, 30 from Barcelona.
One always anticipates great things when it comes to the Russian pianists and this year Tatiana Kolesova, 23 from Moscow, has played exceptionally from an inspired repertoire creating a unique narrative and dialogue with each note. Music as language, music that speaks!
A diverse and extraordinary collection of supremely talented pianists; names to remember - their music will ensure that alone.
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