Featured Performers
Program
LISZT: An die ferne Geliebte – Liederkreis von Beethoven, S469/R124
BEETHOVEN: Piano Sonata No. 23 in F minor, Op. 57, "Appassionata"
TCHAIKOVSKY (arr. M. Pletnev): The Nutcracker Suite, Op. 71a
- PROKOFIEV: Piano Sonata No. 7 in B-flat major, Op. 83
One of the world’s most extraordinary pianists, Nobuyuki Tsujii is renowned for his technical virtuosity and deeply emotional performances. With formidable technique and a natural gift for pianistic color, Tsujii transcends the boundaries of music with his unique ability to express the purest forms of emotion through the piano.
Despite being blind from birth, Japanese pianist Nobuyuki Tsujii (Nobu)’s breathtaking artistry and expressive power have earned him a place among the greatest musicians of his generation. Described by The Observer as the “definition of virtuosity,” his performances resonate with audiences worldwide, whether performing Chopin’s delicate nocturnes, the grandeur of Rachmaninoff, or his own interpretations of classical and contemporary works.
In 2009, Nobu made history as the first blind pianist to win the prestigious Gold Medal at the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition. His breathtaking performances of Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 3 and other masterpieces captivated the judges and audiences alike, launching his career to global heights. From performing with the world’s top orchestras like the London Symphony Orchestra, Tokyo Symphony, and Seoul Philharmonic, to gracing the stages of renowned festivals such as Tanglewood and the Chopin Festival, Nobu’s expressive performances have garnered worldwide admiration.
Nobu is more than just a virtuoso; he is a symbol of perseverance and triumph. Overcoming the challenges of blindness, he has become an ambassador for inclusion and accessibility in the arts, using his platform to inspire others to pursue their dreams. His story is a testament to the power of music to transcend all obstacles.
