Bechstein Music World, 13 December 2025 Presented by Bechstein Music World and organised by True Music Singapore, Cherry Ge’s lecture-recital Empathy in a Fractured World offered an afternoon of music and reflection at the Bechstein Music World Event Hall. Combining performance with spoken commentary, the programme examined how music emerges from lived experience, and how it continues to speak meaningfully in a time shaped by uncertainty and unrest. In an interview prior to her lecture-recital, Cherry spoke candidly about the contemporary reality many listeners recognise all too well: constant exposure to global headlines, war and displacement, environmental anxiety, and the quiet paralysis that comes with witnessing so much suffering from afar. Rather than proposing answers, she positioned music as a space for reflection and human connection, a way of responding thoughtfully within the means of her own artistic practice. The works she selected were framed not as abstract masterpieces, but as expressions born from human struggle, resilience, and emotional truth. The recital featured works by Hamelin, Janáček, and Schumann, with Cherry guiding listeners through the historical and emotional contexts behind each piece. Her commentary was measured and purposeful, enhancing understanding without overwhelming the music itself. The focus remained on how composers transform personal and collective experience into sound, allowing listeners to encounter familiar works through a more human lens. At the piano, Cherry’s playing reflected this same clarity of intent. There was no emphasis on theatrical gesture or outward display; instead, her performance prioritised structure, tonal balance, and sincerity of expression. The intimate setting, paired with the warm and responsive sound of the C. Bechstein D282 concert grand piano, allowed subtle colours and inner voices to emerge naturally, reinforcing the reflective spirit of the programme. The evening concluded with an encore, Chopin’s Mazurka in A minor, Op. 17 No. 4, which, rather than feeling tacked onto the programme, contributed a quiet summation. Introspective and restrained, the piece echoed the central idea of the lecture-recital: that music, shaped by human experience, offers a way to process complexity without spectacle or excess. In a year that has seen Singapore host an impressive roster of international pianists, Empathy in a Fractured World was also a reminder of the depth and seriousness that local artists bring to the concert stage. Cherry Ge’s lecture-recital affirmed that Singapore-based musicians are not merely participants in the global classical music landscape, but thoughtful contributors, engaging with the world as it is and responding through the language of their art. Updates on the upcoming European Sound Piano Concert Lineup for 2026 will be released soon. Follow True Music Singapore and Bechstein Music World on Facebook and Instagram for updates!
On 18 November 2025, Singapore was graced with a rare Southeast Asia appearance by the legendary Eliso Virsaladze, presenting a full Chopin programme at the Victoria Concert Hall. For any pianist, tackling this demanding repertoire is a feat; to do so at 83, showing no signs of slowing down, underscores her unique and enduring authority. For piano students and listeners who often find interpretations of Chopin divisive—either due to excessive emotionalism or dry technical polish—Virsaladze’s recital offered a profound lesson, delivering a performance grounded in discipline and musical integrity.
Virsaladze’s greatest appeal, in our humble opinion, is as an artist who allows the music’s truth to emerge without adornment.
The Authority of Restraint: A Lesson in Presence
Virsaladze established her unique authority not just through her sound, but through her presence. Students could observe a model of controlled mastery: she approached the instrument with an astounding economy of motion. There were no overly dramatic gestures or extraneous visual cues designed to project feeling. Her stillness reflected absolute command, demanding that the audience’s focus remain entirely on the sound. This profound restraint sharpens the ear, making every colour and structural turn emerge with piercing clarity. Paired with the crystal clear tone of a C. Bechstein D282, this made for a profoundly apt match to the evening’s repertoire.
This philosophy was instantly showcased in the monumental Polonaise-Fantasie, Op. 61. Avoiding the exaggerated rubato (the slight give-and-take of tempo) that often clouds this late work, Virsaladze delivered an interpretation anchored in the score’s structural rhythm rather than surface drama. The complex harmonic landscape and fragmented narrative unfolded with an organic, unmistakable logic, achieving conviction without succumbing to melodrama.
Hard-Won Depth: The Value of Simplicity
The depth of her reading is not a simple talent, but the result of relentless dedication—a crucial lesson for developing musicians. Virsaladze has openly discussed the difficulty she faced internalizing Chopin, noting that true mastery lies in preserving the music’s innate beauty and sophistication—a feat achieved through deceptive simplicity.
This discipline was vital in the Piano Sonata No. 3 in B minor, Op. 58. Virsaladze ensured the vast architecture was coherent, shaping the four movements as a unified narrative. The Allegro maestoso (the fast, majestic first movement) achieved a perfect balance between its turbulent power and moments of pure lyricism. The Scherzo possessed focused precision, while the Largo created a sustained stillness that resonated with profound depth. The Finale built with careful, controlled power toward a gripping, earned close.
Insight and Intimacy: Expression Without Exaggeration
In the program’s second half, a journey through Nocturnes, Mazurkas, and Waltzes, Virsaladze underscored her gift for intimacy. Drawing warm, honest tones from the instrument, she proved that Chopin’s complex emotional world can remain deeply moving without dramatic exaggeration. The Grand Valse, Op. 42 captivated through sheer elegance and focused sound. Her encores—a pensive Mazurka in A minor (Op. 68 No. 2) and a jubilant Waltz in A-flat major (Op. 34 No. 1)—closed the evening with the same sincerity that defined the night.
In a musical landscape saturated with interpretation, Eliso Virsaladze offered something far more compelling: a hard-won, honest, and profoundly insightful realization of the repertoire. She allowed the composer’s voice to speak without flourish, gifting the audience a true Traversal of the life and authentic heart of Frédéric Chopin.
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Cristofori Music School celebrated its 45th Anniversary in grand style with Musicale 2025, a spectacular showcase of music and artistry that brought together students, teachers, alumni, and families in a heartfelt evening of performances and memories. Held on 8 November 2025, the concert captured everything Cristofori stands for — creativity, excellence, and the joy of making music together.
A Journey from Humble Beginnings
Founded in 1980, Cristofori began with a single dream — to make quality instruments and music education accessible to every home in Singapore. From one small piano store, we have grown into the nation’s largest music school network, having taught over one million students and delivered more than 60,000 pianos to homes across the island. This incredible journey has been guided by one enduring belief: music is for everyone.
A Celebration of Music and Community
Musicale 2025 was not just a concert, but a living tribute to 45 years of passion and progress. The programme unfolded in themed acts that traced the school’s musical story.
Act I – The Legacy Begins opened with Bach’s Air on the G String, performed by this year’s CMS String Ensemble led by Teacher Erwin Sudarmanto setting a tone of elegance and reflection. This was followed by childhood favorites of many generations, including works by Joe Hisaishi for Studio Ghibli, reminding us of the timeless foundations upon which Cristofori was built.
Act II – Piano Energy & Healing showcased the piano at the heart of our identity. From the poetic lyricism of Weissenberg’s En Avril, à Paris to Liszt’s dazzling Tarantella, performed respectively by pround Cristofori Alumni Carmen Wee, and William Wei respectively. Each performer displayed both technical brilliance and expressive artistry. Anime-inspired pieces by Animenz added a modern touch, connecting classical training with contemporary creativity.
Carmen Wee started her musical journey at age 3 and continues to pursue her craft.
William Wei recently made his concerto debut at the Esplanade Concert Hall in October 2025.
Act III – Rhythm & Power lifted the energy with percussion and ensemble performances that filled the hall with vitality. From K-Pop Demin Hunter’s Golden to Strauss’ Radetzky March that featured the audience as part of the performance, Beeethoven’s Romance No.1 in G major, and Celebration by Kool & The Gang, the spirit of joy was unmistakable — a reflection of the community that music builds.
For “Golden”, Teacher Lee Jit Seng featured the Aeroband Air Drum technology.
Radetzky March featured enthusiastic audience participation.
The performance was led by Teacher Pacholo Madlangbayan.
The concert concluded with Act IV – A Grand Celebration of Passion, bringing together a full cast of young musicians and vocalists for show-stopping numbers such as Divas Medley of songs from Taylor Swift, Olivia Rodrigo, Dua Lipa and Billie Eilish, Yellow, and The Greatest Show. The finale embodied the unity and confidence of a generation raised on Cristofori’s belief in the transformative power of music.
Honouring Our Legacy and Looking Ahead
A highlight of the evening was the return of distinguished alumni Carmen Wee and William Wei, whose performances and reflections reminded everyone how far a Cristofori education can carry a dream. Their journeys stand as a testament to our mission — to nurture not only skill, but also artistry, character, and lifelong passion.
As Cristofori moves beyond its 45th year, we remain committed to inspiring future generations through music learning, innovation, and community collaboration. From classroom lessons to concert stages, our mission continues: to bring music into every home and every heart.
A Heartfelt Thank-You
To our dedicated teachers, talented students, and supportive parents — thank you for being part of this extraordinary milestone. Musicale 2025 was not just another school concert, but a celebration of who we are, what we’ve achieved, and what we continue to strive for together.
🎉 Here’s to 45 years of music, passion, and legacy — and to many more years of inspiring generations to come.
Catch more photos from Musicale 2025 on our Facebook page!
26 October 2025 – The Singapore–China Gala Symphony Concert at Esplanade Concert Hall was an evening that celebrated the power of music to bridge cultures. The programme brought together the Shanghai Nine Trees Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton of the distinguished Tang Muhai, one of China’s most respected conductors whose illustrious career has spanned leading orchestras in Europe, America, and Asia. Renowned for his expressive musicianship and deep understanding of both Eastern and Western repertoires, Tang brought poise, authority, and unity to the evening’s cross-cultural programme.
A celebration of cultural harmony: William Wei with conductor Tang Muhai (second row, fourth and fifth from left), members of the Straits Ensemble (front row), the talented musicians of the orchestra, and some of the dedicated supporters who made this concert possible.
The concert opened with Felix Phang’s Pasat Merdu, performed by the Shanghai Nine Trees Philharmonic Orchestra together with the Straits Ensemble. Featuring ethnic percussion and local instrumental colours, the work painted a vivid sonic portrait of Southeast Asia — alive with rhythm, texture, and community spirit. The collaboration between the orchestra and ensemble created a sonically rich dialogue between traditions, setting a fitting tone for a night devoted to cultural harmony.
One of the concert’s emotional highlights was The Butterfly Lovers Violin Concerto, a timeless fusion of Chinese melody and Western symphonic form. Soloists Zhu Lin (erhu, Singapore Chinese Orchestra) and Kong Zhao Hui (violin, Singapore Symphony Orchestra) delivered deeply expressive performances, intertwining their instruments in lyrical conversation. Their nuanced phrasing and heartfelt storytelling brought this enduring love story vividly to life.
William Wei with conductor Tang Muhai, and the Shanghai Nine Trees Philharmonic Orchestra.
The evening also featured the international premiere of Danny Dong’s Dreaming of Fengpu, a four-part orchestral work inspired by the true story of the residents of Fengpu who joined hands to raise funds to build a bridge for their community. The piece traced this narrative of unity and perseverance through lyrical themes and vibrant orchestral colour, capturing both the spirit of a place and the collective strength of its people.
Singaporean pianist William Wei then took the stage for a stirring performance of Chopin’s Piano Concerto No. 1 in E minor, performed on the C. Bechstein D282 concert grand piano. Making his homecoming concerto debut, William, a proud alumnus of Cristofori Music Singapore, played with elegance and depth, balancing Chopin’s youthful passion with moments of tenderness and reflection. His artistry and composure marked not only his growth as a musician — from a three-year-old in Cristofori Funan’s children’s group music class to an artist on the international stage — but also embodies a living bridge of friendship between Singapore and China.
The concert concluded with a delightful encore medley of beloved classical favourites “Hooked on Classics”, sending the audience home uplifted and inspired.
Taking a bow – from left: violin soloist Kong Zhao Hui, pianist Ge Xiaozhe who played with the ensemble for the first half of the program, erhu soloist Zhu Lin, William Wei, and conductor Tang Muhai.
More than a night of beautiful music, the Singapore–China Gala Symphony Concert stood as a celebration of shared artistry and cultural friendship. For us, seeing one of our own — William Wei — shine alongside musicians from across the region made this occasion especially meaningful, marking not just a milestone in his journey but a moment of harmony between nations.
Be sure to follow Bechstein Music World on Facebook and Instagram as well as True Music Singapore for the latest updates on more upcoming concerts and other events for 2025 and 2026!
On 26 October 2025, the Esplanade Concert Hall will host a landmark evening where music bridges cultures, generations, and nations. Singaporean pianist William Wei (韦宗邑) returns from New York for his homecoming concerto debut, performing Chopin’s Piano Concerto No. 1 on the C. Bechstein D282 concert grand. A recipient of the National Arts Council Singapore’s Gifted Young Musicians Bursary, Wei has developed his artistry on the international stage, refining a style celebrated for its expressive touch, emotional depth, and commanding stage presence. This performance marks a significant moment in his journey, bringing together his experiences abroad with his roots in Singapore, and presenting a youthful masterpiece radiant with poetry, beauty, and virtuosic brilliance.
Singapore pianist William Wei with legendary Maestro Tang Muhai will perform at the Esplanade with the Shanghai Nine Trees Philharmonic Orchestra alongside distinguished Singaporean musicians on 26th October 2025.
The evening features the Shanghai Nine Trees Philharmonic Orchestra alongside distinguished Singaporean musicians, conducted by world-renowned Maestro Tang Muhai (汤沐海). The programme offers a seamless blend of Eastern and Western repertoire, celebrating both tradition and innovation. Audiences will experience the world premiere of the Mei Lanfang Peking Opera Symphony, a bold reimagining of the celebrated Peking opera through the symphonic lens, rich in drama, elegance, and cultural resonance. Complementing this is Felix Phang’s Pasat Merdu, a vibrant work that captures the colour and rhythm of Southeast Asian life.
The concert programme also includes Danny Dong’s Dreaming of Fengpu, Prokofiev’s Symphony No. 1 in D major, Op. 25, and the timeless Butterfly Lovers Concerto by He Zhanhao & Chen Gang. Alongside William Wei, audiences will enjoy performances by Kong Zhao Hui (violin) and Zhu Lin (erhu), highlighting the diversity and depth of musical expression.
More than a performance, this gala is a celebration of friendship, identity, and the future of cross-border collaboration. It is a rare occasion where Eastern and Western musical traditions converge, and where generations of artistry come together on one stage. For William Wei, it is not only a homecoming but a statement of artistic growth — a return to his roots enriched by the perspectives and experiences he has gained abroad.
Date & Time: 26 October 2025 | 7:30 PM Venue: Esplanade Concert Hall Tickets: Available viaSistic.com — redeemable with the Singapore Culture Pass
This is an evening not to be missed, offering a compelling fusion of history, innovation, and artistic excellence, anchored by the homecoming of one of Singapore’s most promising young pianists.
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.
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:
From 18–20 April 2025, the Oxygen Music Festival lit up Singapore’s music scene with a three-day celebration of creativity, dedication, and shared joy. Held across two unique venues — Bechstein Music World at Shenton Way and the Rooftop Garden at Junction 8 in Bishan — this year’s edition embraced a wider audience than ever before, bringing together young performers from Cristofori, other music schools, and the broader community in a warm and inclusive atmosphere.
More than just a competition, the festival featured a full slate of enhanced music workshops led by our most passionate and capable teachers, as well as guest educators from across Asia. Across 18 and 19 April, participants of all levels — from beginners to advanced students — immersed themselves in hands-on sessions for drums, guitar, ukulele, piano, violin, and more, with tailored learning tracks to suit every level and instrument. These workshops were not only well-attended, but also deeply encouraging, offering new insights and sparking fresh motivation in students of all ages.
The heart of the festival, however, beat strongest on 20 April, when the celebrations culminated in the highly anticipated Platinum Winners Concert and Grand Awards Ceremony. The concert presented 14 outstanding performances in six themed segments — from striking self-compositions and timeless classics, to beloved anime and pop tunes that brought smiles to every face in the crowd. Every act was a reminder of how far these young musicians had come, and how much they had to offer.
The concert program presented by the Platinum Award winers highlighted the diversity of talent on display at this year’s competition. Expressive duets, a powerful drum solo, or the tender notes of a familiar evergreen melody, each performance was delivered with heart and polish — the kind that comes only from hours of practice, coaching, and true love for music.
The Awarding Ceremony that followed was a lively affair, honouring the dedication of every performer and celebrating those who stood out across the Children, Teenager, Open, and Group categories. Platinum Award winners received $300 in cash and a trophy, while Gold Award winners took home $200 and a trophy — a token of appreciation for the incredible effort behind each success story.
This year’s Oxygen Music Festival reminded us that music education is not simply about grades or recitals, but also about finding one’s voice, building confidence, connecting with others, and growing through every note played. The incredible turnout — from performers to supportive parents, teachers, and enthusiastic audiences — is a testament to the thriving musical spirit in our midst.
As we wrap up another unforgettable edition, we extend our heartfelt thanks to every student, parent, teacher, and guest who joined us on this journey. Your presence made the festival not just an event, but a community experience — one filled with joy, discovery, and inspiration.
Here’s to another year of making music together — we’ll see you at the next one!
You can still tag @cristofori.music and use #OxygenMusicFestival25 on Instagram, Facebook, and XiaoHongShu to share your favourite memories.
For more updates, photos, and stories, follow Cristofori Music on Facebook and stay tuned for what’s next!
Takeshi Oi’s debut recital in Singapore on 9th March 2025 at Victoria Concert Hall was a memorable occasion, drawing both new listeners and dedicated followers of his work. Performing on a C. Bechstein D282 grand piano, he captivated the audience with his warmth and sincerity, guiding them through a thoughtfully selected program that ranged from Baroque to contemporary, including Romantic and Impressionist masterpieces.
The concert opened with Oi’s own Fragments of Lyrics, a brief yet expressive prelude, before he delved into his Bach repertoire. The Prelude from The Well-Tempered Clavier was beautifully smooth and well-proportioned, followed by the Aria from the Goldberg Variations, where the Bechstein’s crystalline high notes sparkled. Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring flowed with a steady rhythm, concluding with clarity and poise.
In Chopin’s Nocturne in B-flat minor, Oi created a delicate, dreamlike atmosphere, gradually building the intensity in the development. His rendition of the Nocturne in E-flat major felt refreshingly new, thanks to subtle changes in tempo and phrasing, drawing the listener back into the moment. The Nocturne in C minor, Op. 48 No. 1 began with a commanding presence, the firm block chords striking without being overpowering, while the quieter sections were filled with refined elegance. Liszt’s Consolation No. 3 was another highlight, showcasing Oi’s ability to bring depth and intimacy to reflective pieces.
Following the intermission, Oi turned to Debussy. His Rêverie was played at a brisker pace than usual, but the clarity of his voicing made the piece intriguing. La fille aux cheveux de lin was effortless, flowing naturally without hesitation. In Clair de Lune, a timeless favorite, Oi’s performance was unforced and free from overt sentimentality, yet still full of wonder.
Poulenc’s Improvisation in C minor exuded warmth, though some of the cascading passages felt slightly hurried, yet the richness of the texture was still captivating. In Pavane pour une infante défunte by Ravel, Oi’s phrasing revealed the harmonic depth of the piece, though a bit more space between the notes could have enhanced its meditative character.
The segment featuring Japanese composers was deeply personal. Oi’s rendition of Sakamoto’s Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence, dedicated to the late composer, was played with great sensitivity, highlighting its quiet beauty and leaving many listeners misty-eyed. VOICES, the piece that first earned him international acclaim, shimmered in the Bechstein’s upper register. His arrangement of Jupiter (Holst), transcribed in 4/4 rather than its original 3/4, gave the melody an expansive, cinematic quality while retaining its intimate, sentimental nature. Oi’s own composition, Piano Love, brought the program to a joyous close with radiant energy and warmth.
The audience’s heartfelt applause was met with three exquisite encores:
Kunihiro Nakamura: Yama-Yuri
Rachmaninoff: Variation 18 from Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini
Chopin: Aeolian Harp Etude (Op. 25 No. 1)
The evening transcended the typical recital experience, creating a profound sense of shared connection between the performer and the audience. Many had come specifically to witness his Singapore debut, and Oi responded with warmth and sincerity, both through his music and his personal presence, making it an unforgettable evening of music, intimacy, and appreciation.
Be sure to follow Bechstein Music World on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates on more upcoming concerts and other events for 2025!
In May 2025, Singapore will witness the return of a pianist who has captivated audiences worldwide with his electrifying virtuosity and poetic depth—Alexander Malofeev. At just 23, he has already established himself as one of the most compelling voices of his generation, praised for performances that balance breathtaking technical command with a profound emotional sensitivity.Yet Malofeev’s artistic journey encompasses more than just his prodigious talent; it reflects his resilience and ability to navigate the complexities of being a Russian artist in today’s world. Born in Moscow in 2001, he first caught the world’s attention when he won the International Tchaikovsky Competition for Young Musicians in 2014 at the age of 13. Since then, he has collaborated with leading orchestras, from the Mariinsky Theatre Orchestra to the Philharmonia Orchestra, performing under the batons of luminaries like Riccardo Chailly, Mikhail Pletnev, and Myung-Whun Chung. He has graced the world’s most prestigious stages, including Carnegie Hall, Berlin Philharmonie, and the Royal Albert Hall where his interpretations of Rachmaninoff, Prokofiev, and Tchaikovsky have left an indelible mark.
Beyond the accolades, Malofeev’s journey as a Russian artist in today’s world has been marked by his commitment to artistic integrity, even as he faces the challenges of political tensions. In the face of these challenges, he has continued to perform with quiet dignity, letting his music speak where words cannot. His playing carries the weight of history and the struggles of his homeland, while reflecting a universal search for meaning—a testament to the resilience of artistry in uncertain times.
His 2025 recital in Singapore, titled Passion Through the Mist, is a curated exploration of music that grapples with struggle, transformation, and transcendence, as reflected in the works of Schubert, Kabalevsky, Janáček, and Scriabin. The emotional depth of Schubert, the optimism of Kabalevsky, and the mystical qualities of Scriabin. Schubert’s Drei Klavierstücke, D. 946, written in the composer’s final year, offers a deeply personal meditation on life’s fleeting nature. By contrast, Kabalevsky’s Sonata No.3 bursts with post-war optimism, infused with the rhythmic vitality of Russian folk music.
In Janáček’s In the Mists, we are drawn into a world of unresolved emotions—its shifting tonalities and haunting lyricism reflecting the composer’s inner turmoil. The recital culminates in the mystical landscapes of Scriabin’s Préludes, Op. 22, and Fantaisie, Op. 28.; works that push beyond Romanticism into spiritual ecstasy. Through this program, Malofeev channels both fire and fragility, illuminating the endurance of the human spirit through music.
Programme
Franz Schubert – Drei Klavierstücke, D. 946
Dmitry Kabalevsky – Piano Sonata No. 3 in F Major
Leoš Janáček – In the Mists
Alexander Scriabin – 4 Préludes, Op. 22
Alexander Scriabin – Fantaisie, Op. 28
(Programme subject to change at the artist’s discretion.)
Tickets Priority Pre-Sale starts from 17th-28th February 2025 on ticketmaster.sg . All Cristofori Students enjoy a 30% off for CAT 1, 2, 3 and 4 tickets. Get your discount code at your respective outlets by approaching our friendly staff!
Malofeev’s playing stands not only as an expression of technical brilliance, but also as a vessel for storytelling, a bridge between past and present, as he interprets classical compositions with a contemporary sensibility.
From Schubert’s fragile reveries to Scriabin’s mystical fervor, the evening promises to be an unforgettable encounter with a pianist embodying the soul of his generation. Join Alexander Malofeev on an odyssey through passion, poetry, and the power of music to transcend time and borders.
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