When you sit down to play a piano, you’re not just playing an instrument; you’re connecting with a legacy of craftsmanship and a distinct sound tradition. For centuries, piano makers in Europe have refined their art, giving rise to what is now known as the “European Timbre”, celebrated for its unique richness and emotional depth.
But what exactly is the European Timbre, and how is it so distinct from other piano sounds?
The European Timbre is defined by its focus on a richly textured, yet restrained bass that provides a solid, resonant foundation without overpowering the music. This is beautifully complemented by gentle, lyrical mid-high notes that “sing”, reminiscent of the human voice. This balanced and expressive quality creates a profound internal energy within the instrument, allowing for a haunting, long-lasting resonance that truly speaks to the soul.
This stands in contrast to the American Timbre, which is typically characterized by a more powerfully resonant bass and penetrating mid-to-high tones. This sound delivers an intense, immediate sensory impact, making it ideal for the bold, dynamic styles of American music.
The European approach, however, invites the listener into a more nuanced and poetic experience. It’s a sound that values subtlety, elegance, and the ability to convey a wide range of emotions.
At Cristofori Music, this rich heritage is celebrated with a showcase of some of the finest European and European-designed pianos. You can experience the artistry of brands like:
Seiler: With a legacy dating back to 1849 in Germany, Seiler pianos are renowned for their warm, lyrical, and balanced tone. Each German-made Seiler comes with a Certificate of Origin, a testament to its authenticity and superior craftsmanship.
Johannes Seiler: Designed in Germany but crafted in a dedicated facility in Asia, these pianos offer the signature Seiler tone and quality at a more accessible price point.
Petrof: Handcrafted in the Czech Republic since 1854, Petrof pianos are celebrated for their perfect balance of power and poetry.
Ritmüller: Founded in Göttingen, Germany, in 1795, Ritmüller boasts a history of over 230 years and remains a popular choice for its classic European sound.
Rosler: Another brand with Czech craftsmanship, Rosler was founded in 1878 and designed by the esteemed Petrof company.
These instruments embody a symphony of exceptional sound and elegance, inviting you to indulge in the rich heritage of Europe’s finest pianos. Whether you are a musician seeking a new voice for your artistry or a family looking to bring the warmth of music into your home, exploring the European Timbre is a journey worth taking.
Join Us for the European Timbre Piano Showcase!
To truly understand and experience this incredible sound, we invite you to this exclusive event.
Date: From August 1st, 2025 – December 31st, 2025 Location: Music Paradise of Cristofori Music, 9 Bishan Place, #04-02D Junction 8 Shopping Centre, Singapore 579837 RSVP: To book your appointment, please call or WhatsApp us at 8766 0645.
Don’t miss the chance to experience the sound of Europe and even participate in our 45th Anniversary Lucky Draw! Every entry to the showcase entitles you to one lucky draw ticket, with a chance to win a stunning piano.
On 16 August 2025, the Singapore Regional Finals of the Pearl River Kayserburg International Youth Piano Competition took place at the Bechstein Music World Event Hall, bringing together some of the brightest young pianists in the country. From an initial pool of more than 400 participants, just 100 talented finalists earned their place on stage, showcasing artistry, discipline, and passion for the piano.
This year’s Regional Finals highlighted performances from the Children and Junior age group categories, as well as the Exam Categories spanning Grades 1 through 8. Each finalist brought their own voice to the instrument, making the day both inspiring and memorable for audiences, families, and fellow young musicians alike.
The competition culminated in an Awards Ceremony, where prizes were presented to the top winners of each category. The moment was especially meaningful with the announcement of the Student Category Top Prize Winner, Pan Jiarong Oscar, who will proudly represent Singapore at the International Grand Finals in Xiamen, China.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the finalists and prize winners of this year’s competition. Every performance was a celebration of dedication and love for music, and stepping onto the stage itself is already a tremendous achievement.
The Pearl River Kayserburg International Youth Piano Competition is organised by Kayserburg Music School Singapore and presented by the Guangzhou Pearl River Piano Group, continuing its mission to provide young pianists with a platform to grow, connect, and shine on an international stage.
Stay connected with Kayserburg Music School Singapore for the latest updates, highlights, and future events:
We look forward to cheering on our Singapore representative at the Grand Finals in Xiamen — and to seeing even more young musicians rise to the occasion in the years to come.
For 45 years, Cristofori has been part of Singapore’s everyday musical life — from a child’s first piano lesson to family gatherings around music, and even lifelong dreams of owning a quality instrument. As we mark this milestone, we want to celebrate not just our journey, but yours as well.
That’s why we’re launching the Cristofori 45th Anniversary Lucky Draw, a way to give back to the families, students, and music lovers who have supported us through the years.
A Chance to Bring Music Home
From 1 August to 31 December 2025, every $450 spent at any Cristofori outlet earns you a chance to enter the lucky draw. There’s no limit to how many times you can take part — and every entry brings you closer to making music an even bigger part of your home.
The excitement will culminate in the Grand Draw on 10 January 2026 at Junction 8 Shopping Mall, with a live stream so everyone can share in the moment.
Prizes That Enrich Everyday Life
At the heart of the prizes are instruments that truly belong in the home: beautifully crafted upright pianos from renowned European makers like Petrof (Czech Republic) and Seiler (Germany). These are not your everyday prizes, but instruments designed to fill your living space with a legacy of music for years to come, whether it’s the sound of a child learning their first piece, or family evenings gathered around playing a favourite song together.
Owning a fine piano isn’t only about playing music; it’s about creating moments, memories, and traditions that stay with you for a lifetime.
Let’s take a closer look:
First Prize: Petrof Upright Piano P 125 M1
Handcrafted in Europe, the Petrof P 125 M1 is celebrated for its warm, singing tone and superb craftsmanship. With a sleek black finish, it is both a refined instrument and a striking piece of design. For any family, it’s a legacy of music waiting to be passed down.
Second Prize: Seiler Upright Piano 122 Konsole
Built in Germany with over 170 years of piano-making expertise, the Seiler 122 Konsole is compact yet powerful. Its clear, refined sound makes it equally suited for beginners taking their first steps and experienced pianists seeking a trusted companion. A perfect harmony of tradition and modern living.
Third Prize: Johannes Seiler Upright Piano GS 122
Designed in Germany and crafted with care in Asia, the Johannes Seiler GS 122 offers rich tonal depth and a responsive touch. With its contemporary design, it brings both inspiration and elegance to everyday music-making, making it an ideal choice for families who want quality that endures.
Why This Matters to Us
The anniversary lucky draw is a thank-you to every parent who encouraged their child to take lessons, every student who practised diligently, and every music lover who has chosen Cristofori as their companion on their journey. For us, the past 45 years is not just about business, but also about the countless stories of how music has brightened homes across Singapore.
Be Part of the Celebration
Join us as we celebrate this milestone. Visit any Cristofori outlet, take part in the lucky draw, and you may just bring home a piano that becomes the heart of your family’s musical story.
After all, what better way to celebrate 45 years of music than by helping even more families make music together?
At Cristofori Music, we believe that education is about more than just academic grades—it’s about empowering the whole child. While we often focus on physical activities for development, we know that the most powerful gym for a young mind can be found right at the piano.
Learning to play the piano is a uniquely comprehensive activity. It’s a full-brain workout that simultaneously engages a child’s memory, coordination, emotional intelligence, and problem-solving skills in a way that few other pursuits can. The cognitive benefits are so profound that neuroscientists and educators alike have long championed music as a foundational pillar of child development.
Coordination + Concentration = Cognitive Power
The act of playing the piano is a masterclass in bilateral coordination. It requires both hands to perform different, intricate tasks at the same time, often with a different rhythm and dynamic for each. This simultaneous independence and cooperation of the left and right hands strengthens the corpus callosum, the crucial bridge of nerve fibres that connects the brain’s two hemispheres. This enhanced neural communication has been directly linked to improved cognitive function, including accelerated language processing and a greater capacity for abstract mathematical reasoning in young learners. The continuous focus required to read music and perform a piece also sharpens concentration, a skill vital for academic success and beyond.
Reading, Listening, Feeling — All at Once
Playing the piano is the ultimate multitasking challenge. A pianist must simultaneously decode complex symbols on a page, process the auditory feedback of every note they play, translate musical phrasing into the physical touch of the keys, and channel their own emotions into the performance. This complex, real-time integration of multiple senses and skills stimulates the prefrontal cortex, the brain’s command centre responsible for executive functions like attention control, flexible thinking, and working memory. By nurturing these skills from a young age, piano lessons help lay the groundwork for a lifetime of agile, adaptable thinking.
Building Emotional Intelligence
Music is often described as the language of emotion, and the piano provides a powerful medium for children to explore and express their feelings. As they learn to interpret a piece’s mood, from the solemnity of a classical sonata to the joy of a pop tune, they build emotional literacy. This creative outlet helps them develop empathy by understanding the composer’s intent, and it fosters self-confidence and emotional regulation. This invaluable training in emotional intelligence extends far beyond the music room, shaping them into compassionate and well-rounded individuals.
Long-Term Brain Benefits
The advantages of piano education are not fleeting. Research has consistently shown that individuals who learn to play the piano during their formative years maintain superior cognitive abilities well into adulthood. They often exhibit sharper memory, better fine motor control, and a stronger cognitive reserve, which acts as a buffer against age-related cognitive decline. It’s a gift that keeps on giving, ensuring that the initial investment in music education yields lifelong returns in mental sharpness and overall well-being.
At Cristofori, we believe that every child deserves the opportunity to unlock their full potential. Whether your child is just beginning their musical journey or is already a seasoned performer, every moment spent at the piano is a moment of profound brain development. It’s more than just a hobby—it’s an investment in a smarter, more confident, and more emotionally intelligent future.
When Cristofori first opened its doors in 1980, its mission was simple: to bring music into every home in Singapore. Over the decades, we have grown from a modest music school and piano retailer into a household name, synonymous with accessibility, education, and a passion for nurturing musical dreams. Thousands of students have taken their first lessons on Cristofori instruments, and countless Singaporean families have experienced the joy of music through our schools and showrooms.
Now, as Cristofori marks its 45th anniversary, we continue to look forward as much as we look to our past. The world of music is changing, with new technologies making instruments more versatile, portable, and connected than ever before. At COMEX 2025, Cristofori will showcase this exciting future while celebrating the legacy that has brought it here.
Among the highlights is Aeroband, a brand that reimagines what instruments can be. The Aeroband Pocketdrum 2 Max replaces bulky kits with a portable, wireless experience that feels astonishingly real, thanks to ultra-low latency and responsive sensors. Meanwhile, the Aeroband Digital Guitar offers detachable parts, silicone strings that are easy on the fingers, and MIDI compatibility, making it ideal for learners and professionals who want a balance of practicality and creativity.
With Aeroband, music-making no longer needs to be confined to a studio or practice room — it can travel with you anywhere.
Tradition Meets Technology: Cristofori FC-1 AI Port
Cristofori’s own innovation, the FC-1 AI Port, bridges the world of acoustic tradition and digital possibility. This device can transform any upright piano into a smart instrument, with 88 optical sensors capturing every detail of a performance. It integrates seamlessly with music software, opening doors for learning, recording, and composing that were once only possible with high-end digital pianos.
At COMEX, customers who purchase an acoustic upright piano will be able to add the FC-1 at a special promotional price, combining craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology in one package.
45th Anniversary Lucky Draw
No celebration is complete without a chance to give back. From 1 August to 31 December 2025, every $450 spent at Cristofori outlets earns an entry into our 45th Anniversary Lucky Draw. The prizes are a fitting tribute to Cristofori’s heritage, with upright pianos from renowned makers such as Petrof and Seiler among the top rewards.
The draw will be held on 10th January 2026 at the Junction 8 Shopping Mall and streamed live online, so we can all celebrate together.
A Continuing Legacy
Cristofori’s presence at COMEX 2025 is a reflection of our enduring mission: to make music a part of everyday life while embracing innovation that empowers the next generation of learners and creators. For first-time musicians, technology removes barriers. For seasoned players, it expands possibilities. And for families, it ensures music remains a shared experience.
This August, join Cristofori at COMEX 2025 and shape the future of music with us! Here’s to 45 years and beyond!
Whether you’re a beginner, or advancing steadily in your drumming journey, it is important to have an instrument at home to practice on and ensure you stay in top drumming condition for your next lesson, jam session, gig or exam!
Choosing an instrument that meets your needs can be a challenge, especially in Singapore where apartment living can seriously limit your choices as pertains to sound levels during practice sessions. Fortunately, there are a lot of options out there these days with advancements in electronic drum technology, as well as sound-reducing accessories that make owning an acoustic kit in an apartment much more feasible than in the past, eliminating the need to build a special (and expensive!) room to contain the sound!
Professional Quality e-Drum at a Reasonable Price: NU-X DM8
NU-X DM8 Electronic Drum Kit The NU-X DM8 offers the feel and response of a professional acoustic kit, but in a compact and quieter electronic form. Its mesh drum heads give you realistic stick rebound, while the module includes a wide variety of high-quality drum sounds, training functions, and connectivity options for recording or practice with headphones. This kit is ideal if you want a premium e-drum experience at a price that still makes sense for home use.
Great Quality e-Drum on a Budget: Cristofori CDD5
Cristofori CDD5 Electronic Drum Kit At just $450 (special price for Cristofori’s 45th Anniversary Celebration until 31 Dec 2025), the CDD5 is perfect for first-time drummers who want an affordable but reliable e-drum kit. It includes mesh heads for quieter practice, responsive pads, and essential sounds that cover most beginner and intermediate needs. Its compact footprint makes it a good fit for apartments, while still offering enough flexibility to grow with you as you improve.
Acoustic Kit for Small Spaces: Glamor Smart
Glamor Smart Series – Deep Black / Lemon Yellow For drummers who want the authentic acoustic experience but don’t have the space for a full kit, the Glamor Smart is designed with compact living in mind. Despite its smaller size, it retains the punch and resonance of a real drum set. Available in stylish Deep Black and Lemon Yellow finishes, it’s both practical and visually striking — a great option for young learners or hobbyists who want the acoustic feel without overwhelming the room.
Full-Size Acoustic Kit: Glamor K1 Knight
Glamor K1 Knight Series – Lake Blue / Mint Green The K1 Knight is a full acoustic drum set that delivers a bold, powerful sound for those ready to take their drumming further. Designed for both practice and performance, it’s well-suited for students progressing through exams, band rehearsals, or even small gigs. With its eye-catching Lake Blue and Mint Green finishes, it makes as much of a statement visually as it does sonically.
Noise Level Concerns: Mr Meeco Drum Mute Set with Mesh Heads
Mr Meeco ProPad Mute Pad Set If noise is a major concern, the Mr Meeco mute set is a lifesaver for acoustic drummers. These mesh heads and mute pads reduce volume drastically while maintaining stick feel, allowing you to practice on your acoustic kit without disturbing neighbours or family members. No disassembly required, simply attach them over the rim on top of each drum!
Even Quieter Practice: Glamor Silent Cymbal Set
Glamor Silent Cymbals Pair your muted drums with Glamor’s silent cymbal set — including a 14” hi-hat, 16” crash, and 20” ride. Made with perforated metal for authentic stick response, they reduce volume significantly while keeping the feel and rebound of real cymbals. Perfect for drummers who love the acoustic touch but need to keep things quiet at home.
Accessories that Make a Difference
Cristofori Amp 30:Amp for e-drums — compact but powerful enough to bring your electronic kit to life – and… it has Bluetooth for your backing tracks playback, or to simply enjoy music at home!
The Asian Supreme Drum Competition 2025 held its Qualifying Round over National Day Weekend (8–10 August 2025) at the Bishan Junction 8 Level 3 Rooftop Garden, bringing together a large community of young drummers, and we were right there to cheer on our Cristofori drum students in attendance! Participants competed across multiple categories, including Children, Junior, Intermediate, and Open age groups, as well as Rockschool Exam categories from Grades Debut through 5.
This year introduced the Drum Fusion Challenge, a new category designed to let participants explore different styles and experiment with improvisation over a pre-released backing track. Contestants demonstrated their technical skills, rhythmic ideas, and personal musicality, showing a range of approaches and creative interpretations. The addition of this category provided a fresh and engaging element to the competition, encouraging young drummers to think beyond traditional repertoire.
The Qualifying Round was also an opportunity to celebrate the community around drumming. Families, teachers, and friends came together to support the participants, creating a welcoming and encouraging atmosphere. Young students experienced the stage for the first time, and the combination of performances and community support made the event as much about learning and connection as it was about competition.
The excitement now builds toward the next steps. Finalists will be announced on 5 September 2025, and those selected will advance to the Grand Finals, taking place on 1–2 November 2025 at the Funan Mall Atrium.
RS Event Center Singapore, the organiser of the competition, thanks all participants, families, and supporters for helping make this year’s Qualifying Round a meaningful and enjoyable experience.
Stay connected for updates, photos, and announcements:
This September, a rare musical experience returns to Victoria Concert Hall as part of the European Sound Concert Series by True Music Singapore. On 26 September 2025, Czech pianist Matyáš Novák will take the stage for Homage to Czech Music’s Four Greats, a recital celebrating the timeless beauty and expressive spirit of Czech classical music.
This performance marks only the second-ever Petrof recital in Singapore, following the success of the inaugural event on 4 July, where Prof. Karel Košárek stepped in for the indisposed Jan Schulmeister. This Petrof Concert Series is part of Cristofori Music Singapore’s 45th Anniversary Celebration. Košárek’s deeply memorable performance introduced local audiences to the bold, earthy tone of the Petrof Monsoon P237, a Czech handcrafted concert grand piano making its Singapore debut.
Now, Petrof returns to the Singapore stage along with a rising star of the European concert scene..
A Young Artist with Remarkable Depth
Matyáš Novák, born in 1998, has already performed on some of the world’s most prestigious stages, including Carnegie Hall in New York and the National Gallery of Art in Washington. A member of the Petrof Art Family, he is known not only for his expressive touch and imaginative interpretations, but also for his original piano transcriptions and fantasies based on operas and folk melodies.
Though still in his twenties, Novák commands a repertoire of remarkable depth and variety — from the romantic masterpieces of the 19th century to his own inventive works that draw upon Czech musical tradition.
A Tribute to Four Masters of Czech Music
Titled Homage to Czech Music’s Four Greats, this recital showcases music by Bedřich Smetana, Antonín Dvořák, Leoš Janáček, and Josef Suk: composers whose works continue to shape the sound and identity of Czech classical music.
The programme moves from lively folk dances and lyrical miniatures to emotionally charged reflections on life, love, and national memory. Two original fantasies by Novák based on Dvořák’s opera Rusalka and Smetana’s beloved Vltava add a personal voice to this tribute, offering audiences something both familiar and newly imagined.
Event Details
Date: Friday, 26 September 2025 Time: 8:00 PM Venue: Victoria Concert Hall Tickets: From $18 via Ticketmaster.sg Enquiries: (65) 9687 4480
Programme
BEDŘICH SMETANA Selections from Czech Dances
JOSEF SUK Song of Love, Op. 7 No. 1
ANTONÍN DVOŘÁK Poetic Tone Pictures, Op. 85 (Selection)
INTERMISSION
LEOŠ JANÁČEK Sonata 1.X.1905 (“From the Street”) I. Presentiment II. Death
ANTONÍN DVOŘÁK / MATYÁŠ NOVÁK Fantasy on Themes from Rusalka
BEDŘICH SMETANA / MATYÁŠ NOVÁK Vltava (The Moldau)
A Czech Piano for Czech Music
Petrof pianos made their Singapore debut on 4th July 2025 in the hands of Professor Karel Košárek playing a curated program of Czech music, and jazz-infused 20th century masterpieces.
This programme will be performed on the Petrof Monsoon P237, a concert grand piano designed and handcrafted in the Czech Republic. Known for its rich, singing tone and lyrical voice, exceptional quality and craftsmanship, Petrof stands proudly as one of Europe’s oldest and largest piano manufacturers, with a history dating back to 1864.
Hearing Czech music performed by a Czech pianist on a Czech piano is a rare opportunity in Singapore, and one that promises a uniquely authentic musical experience.
Whether you are a seasoned concertgoer or exploring classical music for the first time, this recital offers an inspiring entry point into a world of rich heritage, masterful storytelling, and expressive sound from both the musician, and the instrument.
This event is presented by Cristofori Music Singapore, and organised by True Music Singapore, with the support of Petrof, and the Embassy of the Czech Republic in Singapore.
For more updates on the European Sound Concert Series, be sure to follow True Music Singapore on Facebook and Instagram, and for a peek at Petrof pianos, head over to their main showroom in Singapore at the Cristofori Academy of Fine Arts (CAFA) @ One Holland Village, or visit the Piano Megastore at Blk 3014 Bedok Industrial Park E.
European Piano Sound Concert Series 2025 | 4 July 2025, Victoria Concert Hall
The evening of 4 July 2025 at Victoria Concert Hall marked several exciting firsts for Singapore’s classical music scene—and a significant moment for the European Piano Sound Concert Series. Making his Singapore recital debut, Czech pianist Karel Košárek stepped in for his compatriot Jan Schulmeister, who was unfortunately indisposed. It was not only Košárek’s first visit to Singapore, but also the first concert appearance of a Petrof piano on a major local stage. For audiences more familiar with the sheen of Berlin- or Vienna-built grands, the Bohemian-crafted Petrof offered something different: a warm, earthy tone and generous resonance that proved an ideal match for Košárek’s thoughtfully curated program, which explored Czech identity, Romantic poetry, and jazzy flair. It became immediately clear why Košárek is so highly regarded in Czechia.
Košárek opened with Bedřich Smetana’s Skočná (Hop Dance), instantly setting the tone for a recital that was both rooted in tradition and full of life. The piece, drawn from Czech folk dance, was animated with syncopations and buoyant rhythms that Košárek played with infectious charm. Rather than simply mimicking rustic melodies, Smetana wove them into classical form—an approach Košárek brought out with both vitality and refinement, making the piece feel like a village celebration sprung to life on stage.
Karel Košárek addresses the audience briefly at his Singapore debut recital at the Victoria Concert Hall, 4 July 2025
This exuberance gave way to a more introspective side of Smetana in the Fantasia on Czech Folk Songs. A lesser-known gem, the Fantasia unfolds in ethereal waves. Here, Košárek allowed the music space to shimmer and breathe, drawing on the Petrof’s tonal richness to create harp-like textures and luminous harmonies. The result was a soundscape full of lyricality and emotional resonance—evoking images of serene riversides and foggy landscapes—that lingered in the mind long after the final chord.
He then transitioned to Smetana’s Fantasia on Czech Folk Songs, leading the audience on a more introspective and dreamlike detour. This rarely performed work reveals a side of Smetana that is more like a musical dreamer than a nationalist, weaving together fragments of folk melodies with a rhapsodic touch. Košárek eloquently conveyed its sense of wonder, particularly in the harp-like textures that shimmered through the Petrof’s rich, earthy resonance. The performance painted a captivating soundscape, evoking images of foggy landscapes and serene riverside villages, making this an unexpected and tender highlight.
It was clear from this recital why Košárek is one of the most sought-after pianists in the Czech Republic.
Franz Liszt’s Sonetto 104 and Sonetto 123 del Petrarca brought a shift from the rustic to the poetic. Based on 14th-century sonnets by Petrarch—one expressing anguish, the other serene love—these pieces showcase Liszt’s deep engagement with literary and spiritual ideas, and his pianistic poetry. The fervent Sonetto 104 was voiced with exceptional clarity; its top melody line truly sang through the hands of this masterful performer. Košárek’s control on the voicing allowed the audience to keenly feel the longing Liszt portrayed. The more tranquil Sonetto 123, often considered one of Liszt’s most meditative works, was delivered with graceful restraint. Košárek’s phrasing gave the music a gentle, unhurried pace, allowing each harmony to settle naturally and capture the quiet depth at the heart of the piece.
After the intermission, the recital boldly turned toward the 20th century, and with it, a delightful surge in pace and character. Bohuslav Martinů’s Three Czech Dances, composed in 1926, brilliantly reflects a composer caught between his beloved Czech roots and his adopted home in Parisian exile. Beneath their folk surface, a pulse of urban life and playful rhythmic twists emerged. The first dance, Obkročák, elegantly blended the charm of its folk roots with a smattering of jazz touches, while the Dupák felt remarkably relatable, akin to navigating a crowded train commute or bustling city streets, full of detours and narrow escapes. The final Polka bounced with an irregular, buoyant energy, much like the determined effort of meeting a busy work day packed with deadlines on little sleep but still managing it quite decently, albeit with a few close calls. It was absolutely charming and infectious.
Then came the pieces that truly bridged the concert’s “Bohemia to Broadway” theme. George Gershwin’s Preludes for Piano may need little introduction, but Košárek performed them with a theatrical flair that brought their origins — steeped in the rhythms and harmonies of 1920s jazz — into the spotlight. These pieces show how Gershwin took the sounds of jazz and brought them into the concert hall — much like how Chopin once turned the waltz into something elegant and expressive, without losing its charm.Košárek brought the slow preludes to life with a smooth, smoky warmth, while the fast ones danced with energy and playful charm. Each one felt like its own little story — full of personality and flair.
And just when you thought the programme couldn’t get any more adventurous, Friedrich Gulda’s Play Piano Play No. 9 and Prelude & Fugue took things to a whole new level. A classical rebel through and through, Gulda once faked his own death — partly to poke fun at the snobbery of the classical world, and partly to draw attention to his trailblazing crossover work. Košárek clearly had fun with these pieces, bringing out their quirky charm and rhythmic bite. The Fugue was especially memorable: its counterpoint followed all the rules, but danced to its own beat — full of syncopation, sly turns, and jazzy flair. With effortless style, Košárek reminded us that great music doesn’t have to stay in one box — it can groove, surprise, and still be brilliantly played.
Karel Košárek gave a delightful and spirited performance on the Petrof Grand Piano P237 Monsoon at the Victoria Concert Hall. 4 July 2025
And then, the eagerly anticipated culmination: Gershwin’s iconic Rhapsody in Blue, in its powerful solo piano version. This work, originally written in a remarkable rush (famously, partly on a train journey), stands as one of the most iconic American concert pieces of the 20th century. Yet, in the hands of a Czech pianist playing a Czech piano in a concert hall in Singapore, it somehow sounded fresh and uniquely vibrant again. Košárek’s interpretation was vivid, bold, and brimming with character. The famous clarinet glissando—that glorious, notoriously “unplayable on piano” effect—was reimagined as a shimmering run. The big themes rang out with a brassy swagger, and any slight imperfections only added to the authentic, joyfully spontaneous spirit in which the piece was first “dashed off.” It was theatrical, unapologetic, thrilling!
To the delight of the audience, Košárek returned for two encores: the exuberant Sabre Dance Boogie by Louis Busch, and a charming Poetic Polka in G Minor by Smetana, offering a final, delightful nod to his homeland that brought the evening full circle. The warmth and enthusiasm in the hall were a clear sign that both the artist and his uniquely curated program had made a significant impact on the audience.
In a concert landscape where many recitals typically follow a familiar mold, Karel Košárek’s program, “From Bohemia to Broadway,” truly stood out. It dared to mix Romanticism, national identity, jazz, and a healthy dose of rebellious fun. Košárek brought a unique perspective – a vivid reminder that music doesn’t always need rigid structure or borders, even when it’s deeply rooted in one’s own culture. Sometimes, it just needs a compelling storyteller, and a fantastic pianist, to bring those stories to life. Karel Košárek’s Singapore debut with Petrof made for a truly memorable night indeed.
This concert was presented by Cristofori Music Singapore, and organised by True Music Singapore, with the support of the Embassy of the Czech Republic in Singapore.
On a quiet Thursday afternoon, the recital hall at Bechstein Music World came to life with a unique musical event that brought together history, heritage, and heartfelt performance. The audience was treated to an insightful and beautifully curated lecture-recital by Hungarian pianist Alexandra Balog, who made her Singapore debut with Two Pianos & the Sound of Europe.
Ms Edit Kerekes, the Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of Hungary in Singapore giving a warm welcome to guests in attendance.
The event began with a welcome address by Ms Edit Kerekes, the Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of Hungary in Singapore, who introduced Alexandra as a “gifted storyteller” and “a treasure” — not only for her artistry but also for her passionate promotion of Hungarian folk music and her contributions to music education. It was a fitting introduction to what unfolded as a personal, illuminating journey through repertoire spanning styles, cultures, and centuries.
Alexandra herself emerged before the recital to share the theme of the afternoon: a conversation between two pianos, represented by the C. Bechstein D282 and the PETROF Monsoon. In a playful and perceptive experiment, she performed several shorter works — including miniatures by Kodály and Schubert — once on each piano, letting listeners hear how the instruments’ voices contrasted in colour, tone, and atmosphere. In one of the later works, she even alternated between the two pianos mid-piece — like two singers taking turns, sharing musical lines in dialogue.
Her program was thoughtfully arranged into three segments. The first explored Hungarian folk-inspired music by Zoltán Kodály and Béla Bartók — two composers who, while drawing from the same folk traditions, approached them in markedly different ways. Kodály, she explained, remained true to the raw and often sombre character of folk songs, depicting not just dances but also laments and rural struggles. Bartók, on the other hand, stylised folk material with more dramatic flair and a composer’s touch for abstraction. Alexandra’s commentaries brought the pieces to life, helping many in the audience — including students encountering these works for the first time — discover new sounds and perspectives.
The second segment centred on pieces personally meaningful to the artist — Mozart’s Fantasie in C minor and Chopin’s Nocturne Op. 48 No. 1. Alexandra drew connections between the two, noting how one opens and the other closes in the same key, and how both share a sense of introspective drama and emotional depth.
The final portion featured Romantic-era favourites, such as Chopin’s Fantasie-Impromptu, Schubert’s Impromptu in A-flat Major, and Liszt’s poetic transcription of Ständchen — music that felt at home in the warm acoustics of the recital hall.
“These two beautiful pianos are like two very different people”, Alexandra Balog remarked at her Lecture-Recital held at Bechstein Music World Singapore.
At several points during the afternoon, Alexandra reflected on the nature of the concert experience itself. She shared that in her conversations with fellow musicians, many agreed that smaller, more intimate venues often offered the most rewarding performance experiences — allowing a closer connection between performer and audience. It was a fitting sentiment for the Bechstein Recital Hall, with its natural light and inviting scale. She also reminded us that Franz Liszt was the one who essentially invented the modern piano recital, a tradition that continues to evolve in personal and imaginative ways — just as she demonstrated.
What made this recital so memorable wasn’t just the rare opportunity to hear two grand pianos in such direct comparison, but the depth of Alexandra’s musical storytelling. Her spoken introductions, full of insight and personality, invited the audience into each piece in a way that was both educational and engaging.
We hope this inspiring afternoon — one that blended scholarship, spontaneity, and soul — left listeners of all ages, especially the many young students present, with a deeper appreciation for the richness of European piano music, and a curiosity to explore beyond the familiar.
Heartfelt thanks go out to Alexandra Balog for her debut performance in Singapore, and to the Embassy of Hungary in Singapore for their generous support of this special event.
