Piano maestro Calvin Abdiel will present a masterclass and recital at Greenway Chapel on May 1.
Abdiel is the youngest ever competitor in the Sydney International Piano Competition and the first Australian to reach the grand final in almost 20 years, taking out the George Frederick Boyle third prize.
The international jury also awarded him the Nancy Weir Best Australian Pianist prize along with the Australian Elizabethan Theatre Trust prize of an overseas scholarship to further his musical career.
The May 1 event will be presented by Central Coast Conservatorium of Music (CCCM) in partnership with the competition.
The masterclass will see five preselected CCCM advanced students participate alongside Abdiel.
The students, who are preparing for examinations and recitals, will present a repertoire from the classical and romantic periods.
The event is open to spectators of all levels and ages, providing them with an opportunity to be inspired by the process of learning at an advanced level.
They will see how playing the piano encompasses a full range of skills – from basic technique to interpretation and artistry.
CCCM Artistic Director, Patrick Brennan, said there was a great benefit to students in attending a masterclass.
“The main point of a masterclass is to provide a new perspective and fresh approach by a high calibre visiting artist,” he said.
Aspects of the musicians’ playing will be broken down and explained so that everyone can gain from the lesson.
The Sydney International Piano Competition has always held events at the highest international level.
These inspire pianists and audiences alike by showcasing outstanding pianists from around the world and assist in developing their careers.
The program will include the complex Réminiscences de Don Juan (Liszt/Mozart) and a selection of works by Spanish composer Granados.
The masterclass will be held at 11am on May 1, with the recital to follow at 2.30pm at Greenway Chapel, 460 Avoca Drive, Green Point.
For more information on the event and to book tickets go to visit https://bit.ly/CalvinAbdielEvent (ticket allows admission to both sessions).
Source:
Media release, Apr 19
Central Coast Conservatorium
