Pierre Van Der Westhuizen has an appreciate for pianism born of his own career on the instrument, his familiarity with several generations of top pianists, and his direction of the Cleveland International Piano Competition. In an interview with Cara Lieurance, Van Der Westhuizen introduces the six Rising Stars and two Piano Masters of the 2018-19 season of the Gilmore Keyboard Festival, where he is now executive director.
Hailing from the four corners of the globe, the artists appearing on the Rising Stars Series represent some of the brightest young talent of today, from China, Russia, Hungary, Italy, and the United States - all tested under the glare of international competitions. The two piano masters - Gabriela Montero and Murray Perahia - have earned their places in the pantheon of legendary artists due to their unique voices, Van Der Westhuizen says.
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