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How Music Works – ABC Classic

ABC Classic takes us on a fascinating journey of  how  music works.  Featuring short videos of everything from 'how does saxophone makes sound' to'how does an orchestra know when to start' this series has lots interesting, factual and entertaining…

ABC Classic features Ara Vartoukian at the 2019 International Tchaikovsky Competition in Moscow, Russia.

ABC Classic talks to head competition Steinway technician Ara Vartoukian about the 2019 International Tchaikovsky Competition in Moscow, Russia.  An interesting read about behind the scene insights into this highly esteemed competition. …

The finals are over and with much celebration!

The judges file into the concert after about 1.5 hours of deliberations to make the winners announcements. 7 FINALISTS! Returning to hallowed grounds in the Moscow Conservatorium, Tchaikovsky Concert Hall with a surprise announcement!…

Tchaikovsky Competition – Round 2 begins!

The second round starts. This time the competitors have an hour to impress the judges.  Backstage the next competitor hammers away in the warmup room, the men in white coats and gloves shuffle around the 5 pianos as they are to be used and…

Tchaikovsky Competition – Final Day, round 1

Backstage there is increased activity, apart from the organizers and stagehands the media throng is increasing with a microphone, camera or video camera in everyone’s face. You must be careful what you say or do as all of a sudden a camera…
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Tchaikovsky Competition – Quote of the Day – round one

19/06 Quote of the day ‘great apple’! Comment from Fujita Mao. After playing an incredible last performance of the day he was obviously hungry. I was half way through munching a large green apple when I bumped into him back stage as he…

Tchaikovsky Competition – Day 1, the competition begins

Xie Ming strides onto the stage with an air of confidence. The hall is full, a dozen cameras are rolling for the worldwide TV broadcast, commentators are finalising their ideas in hush tones on the balcony, photographers jockey for the best…

Alex Raineri & Luke Carbon duo in Recital

We’re excited to welcome pianist Alex Raineri and clarinettist Luke Carbon to our Theme & Variations showroom for an intimate duo recital on Sunday 7th July. Alex was a past recipient of the Theme & Variations Foundation award,…

Tchaikovsky International Competition -Piano Selections and Opening Gala!

Things are hotting up in Moscow with the piano selections are now underway.  All the manufacturers have been working diligently on their instruments, and now is the test as to which piano the competitors will choose to play in the competition…

Postcards from Moscow – 16th Tchaikovsky Competition 2019

Ara has arrived in Moscow, Russia for the 16 International Tchaikovsky Competition that runs for 12 consecutive days. Travelling to Moscow was tiring and interesting. After a long trip, Ara caught up on some much-needed sleep & explored…