One of the most renowned classical pianists of modern time András Schiff visited Russia with anniversary concerts and presented to the audience in both Russian capitals the works of Bach and Beethoven.

Prizewinner at the Tchaikovsky Competition in Moscow in 1974, Schiff has started to perform in Russia just recently, already as one of the best pianists in the world. As in previous years, the organizer of his concerts was the Musical Olympus Foundation.

Schiff presented to the audience an exceptionally complex programme: Bach Goldberg Variations and 33 Beethoven Diabelli Variations. The culmination of the concerts was the curtain call – the maestro performed Beethoven’s Apassionata in full. This tragic music brought emotional explosion to the audience that gave standing ovation to the great musician.

“I believe that only few artists are morally and artistically entitled to perform such programme. Only a person who has achieved absolute mastery has the right to interpret Goldberg Variations,” said Irina Nikitina, President of the Musical Olympus Foundation.

During his visit to St Petersburg, András Schiff also gave his public masterclass for young musicians. The best students of the St Petersburg Conservatory took part in the masterclass.

András Schiff’s interview to Orpheus radio

Video of András Schiff’s masterclass