More than hobbyists: The world of amateur pianism

Ten works revealing the paradox of Chopin: a composer outwardly delicate, inwardly steely; rooted in Polish dance rhythms, yet formed in Parisian sophistication. 

Vanessa Latarche, professor of Piano at the Royal College of Music and chair of Hastings’ jury, talks about what makes the competition special, working with Sir Stephen Hough, and being a stickler for fairness.

A 17-person international jury has selected Eric Lu as the first prize winner of the illustrious competition after 15 days of competition.

Widely admired for her recordings of Scarlatti and Clementi, Maria Tipo was a prolific concert artist and influential teacher at conservatories in Florence, Geneva and Bolzano.

Ahead of a performance at London’s Sinfonia Smith Square, pianist Cristian Sandrin talks about commissioning three new variations from composers Farhad Poupel, Louise Drewett and Philip Dutton, and his aim to create a new view of Bach’s music.

The Russian pianist talks about his recent triumph at the Classic Piano International Competition in Dubai – and how his opposition to the war in Ukraine has changed his musical life.