Hello everyone - and welcome back to the Piano Fortissimo Podcast episode 16. It feels like it’s been a long break... and, well, it has. But the truth is: I’ve been busy. Very busy. Performing, teaching, travelling, So thank you for your patience and for tuning in again. I’ve missed these conversations and I’m truly excited about what’s coming next. And I promise: it’s worth the wait. Today on the Piano Fortissimo Podcast, I’m joined by a truly unique voice in the world of classical music: Hyung-ki Joo - British pianist, composer, and educator of Korean heritage, renowned for his expressive playing, magnetic stage presence, and unconventional approach to music-making. A graduate of the Yehudi Menuhin School and the Manhattan School of Music - where he was later awarded an honorary doctorate - Hyung-ki has performed with major orchestras such as the London Philharmonic, the Santa Cecilia Orchestra, and the Seoul Philharmonic. As a chamber musician, he’s collaborated with legendary names including Julia Fischer, Janine Jansen, Gidon Kremer, and Viktoria Mullova, and he has a special love for vocal repertoire, working with artists like Dame Felicity Lott, Pretty Yende, and Asmik Grigorian. Beyond the stage, Hyung-ki is Artistic Director of the Menuhin Competition and Piano City Vienna. He’s also a passionate teacher, mentoring young musicians at top institutions around the world. His compositions have been commissioned by the New York Philharmonic and the Vienna Symphony, among others. And of course, for over two decades, he’s brought joy to global audiences as one half of Igudesman & Joo, blending classical music, comedy, and pop culture - a duo that will take their final bow in 2025. From recording Billy Joel’s classical album to curating the Vienna Festwochen opening, Hyung-ki’s artistic reach seems limitless. I’m thrilled to welcome him today to explore the many sides of creativity, risk, and reinvention in classical music.

Sergei Prokofiev’s music has been a defining part of my artistic journey. His bold, imaginative, and deeply expressive works have shaped my professional life, and I’ve had the privilege of recording some of his most amazing piano pieces as my debut cd recording back in 2011. But today, we explore another side of the Prokofiev legacy - one that is just as creative, just as thought-provoking, and deeply personal. My guest for this episode is Lina Prokofieff, the great-granddaughter of the legendary composer! Born in Moscow in 1981, Lina moved to Paris with her family at the age of nine. Initially drawn to literature, she later studied graphic design in Paris and Brussels. Her professional career began in advertising and the press, but she soon found her true passion in photography, becoming a self-taught artist exhibiting in both Paris and Moscow. In 2018, she discovered the art of embroidery, a turning point that allowed her to reconnect with physical materials in a profound way. She began creating hybrid works, where ink merges with beads and threads, forming compositions that feel organic, almost alive. Then, in 2022, she took another artistic leap, dedicating herself fully to painting. Her first series, Cartes sans territoire (Maps Without Territory), was unveiled in a solo exhibition in Paris, marking yet another evolution in her creative journey. Lina and I share a special connection - not just through the name Prokofiev, but through years of friendship. In this episode, we’ll talk about her path, the inspiration behind her artworks, and what it means to carry such a famous name while forging a unique identity as an artist. And as a special treat, Lina and her family have generously prepared a giveaway for our listeners, which I’ll reveal at the end of the episode - so stay tuned! Follow for more on Instagram: @linaprokofieff @piano_fortissimo_podcast @alexandrasilocea

My next guest on the Piano Fortissimo Podcast is the fantastic Eren Yağmuroğlu, member of esteemed institutions like the Recording Academy Grammy Awards since 2015 and the International Academy of Digital Arts & Sciences since 2020 and strategic advisor known for his contributions in creating, leading and driving organizations, brands and societies. He has made significant contributions to renowned artists and organizations, including Fazıl Say as community and productions manager, and StillArt as brand manager. He actively participates in the Harvard Business School Online Istanbul Chapter and has been contributing to the Harvard Business School Online Community since 2016. Yagmuroglu was a guest lecturer at Columbia University of New York in 2019. Reaching younger audiences by visiting universities around the world as a guest lecturer and providing comprehensive details about his cases. His creative vision continues to influence organizations and shape meaningful endeavors towards cultural transformation, creating a more open, reflective community culture, as well as transparent governments and businesses. For me, he is a visionary, a mentor, a driving force on my journey, and a source of support for which I am incredibly grateful.

Episode 13 with wonderful Stage Director Sinéad O'Neill, an authentic conversation on what it means to direct an opera production, on inspiration, motherhood and so much more. It is also my first guest challenging me with some questions.

Designated Music Director of the Royal Ballet and Opera, Covent Garden London from 2025, Chief Conductor of the Bamberg Symphony & Principal Guest Conductor of the Czech Philharmonic, Jakub Hrůša has been celebrated for his work with some of the most renowned orchestras and institutions worldwide, including Vienna Philharmonic, Berlin Philharmonic, Concertgebouw, Mahler Chamber Orchestra, Chicago Philharmonic and many more. Grab a cup of your favorite drink and join us on this beautiful, warmhearted and authentic conversation!

Radu Lupu • The Magician, an episode dedicated to Radu on what would have been his 79th birthday, November 30. The impact Radu has had on my trajectory, how we met and what we worked on, all this with excepts from the newly launched book “In Memoriam Radu Lupu” where I had the honor and joy of sharing my memories.

Celebrating a small milestone with Episode 10 of the Piano Fortissimo Podcast, featuring my wonderful friend and extraordinary bass singer, Matthew Rose! In this relaxed conversation, we discuss his approach to performance, managing pressure, and the art of connecting with audiences. Matthew also shares his passion for mentoring the next generation, along with insights into his latest project, Folkestone on Song. Tune in to discover how and when you can apply to work with Matthew and other esteemed artists. More information: https://www.soundsfolkestone.co.uk/initiatives/folkestone-on-song/

Welcome to episode 9 of the Piano Fortissimo Podcast! Today, we're diving deep into a topic that resonates with many musicians: handling stress, stage fright, and finding balance in a demanding career. My guest is Mariella Bruckner, an experienced psychotherapist and coach who has worked extensively with artists and performers. She combines her knowledge of life balance and stress management with a unique perspective on the specific challenges that creative professionals face. Mariella has nearly 20 years of experience teaching at the University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna, where she works with students at the Institute for Cultural Management, where we also met and worked with each other a couple of years ago. She also trains groups in social skills and runs her own practice in Vienna’s 9th district. She’s passionate about her work and finds great meaning in helping people manage life's challenges and enjoy it more fully. You can learn more about her, her background, and her services on her website: www.mariellabruckner.info I'm so excited to welcome Mariella to the podcast today. We're going to explore the pressures musicians face, and she'll offer insights into managing performance anxiety and maintaining a healthy balance in such a demanding profession. Let’s get started!

In this episode, I’ll be joined by Peter Salisbury, a master concert piano technician with nearly five decades of expertise. Starting his career as an apprentice at Steinway London at just 16, Peter worked alongside technicians responsible for the pianos of legendary figures like Claudio Arrau and Vladimir Horowitz. His career spans prestigious companies like Bösendorfer and Fazioli, and for nearly 30 years, he’s served as Senior Concert Piano Technician at London’s Royal Festival Hall. In this episode, we’ll delve into Peter’s incredible journey, his mastery of piano sound, and his reflections on working with some of the world’s greatest pianists. Peter also extends an invite to YOU so don't miss this inspiring conversation! www.grandpianoservicing.co.uk

This episode is particularly close to my heart as it marks my upcoming debut performance at the National Gallery in London on the 10th of October 2024, in honor of 85 years since Myra Hess’s legendary wartime concerts. I couldn’t think of a more fitting guest to join me in celebrating this milestone than the renowned journalist and author Jessica Duchen. Jessica Duchen held editorial posts with several music magazines, including editing Britain’s first independent piano magazine, before going freelance to concentrate on writing. Following 12 years with The Independent up to 2016, she now contributes to the Sunday Times, the I News and BBC Music Magazine.  She has written seven novels on musical topics, most recently Immortal (2020), capturing the tragic love story behind Beethoven’s ‘Immortal Beloved’ letter. Ghost Variations (2016) is based on the true story of the Schumann Violin Concerto’s rediscovery in the 1930s. John Suchet chose it as his Best Read for the Daily Mail’s Christmas Books. As a librettist Jessica works regularly with the composer Roxanna Panufnik. Their community opera Dalia was premiered at Garsington Opera in summer 2022 and won an Excellence in Music Education Award, while Silver Birch, also for Garsington, was shortlisted for an International Opera Award in 2018. Meanwhile Jessica often creates concert dramas and narrated concerts which have been heard at the Wigmore Hall, The Sage Gateshead and Kings Place, plus numerous festivals in the UK, France and Australia. Having written three biographies – Korngold, Fauré and the London Chamber Orchestra – Jessica is currently working on a new book about Dame Myra Hess, due out next spring from Kahn & Averill. It is the first biography of the great pianist since 1976 and contains material from letters and diaries that has never been published before. Who was Myra Hess, and what important role did she play during the Second World War at the iconic National Gallery? How did Rachmaninoff respond when she pointed out that he had learned a wrong note in Schumann's Carnaval? And much more!

A candid conversation with internationally acclaimed pianist Saskia Giorgini, where she reflects on the evolving role of pianists and what fuels her enduring passion for music.

74 years ago, on this very day, 16th of September 1950, Romanian pianist Dinu Lipatti was playing his last recital in Besançon - France. In this episode of the Piano Fortissimo Podcast, I have the honour and joy to talk with renowned Dinu Lipatti expert, Mark Ainley from The Piano Files and explore the life and legacy of the legendary pianist Dinu Lipatti. Mark Ainley shares his journey into Lipatti's world, revealing fascinating discoveries of rare recordings and personal anecdotes. Together, we discuss Lipatti's influences, his unique artistry, and how his recordings—though limited—continue to shape the classical music landscape. Tune in for an in-depth look at one of the most revered pianists, and discover what makes Lipatti’s interpretations resonate so deeply today. You can find more on Mark's work on his Facebook page : The Piano Files with Mark Ainley and his Piano Files website: www.thepianofiles.com

It is clear that doubt is an inevitable part of life as a performing artist—and really, for anyone pursuing a creative or performance-based career. By recognizing the difference between destructive and constructive doubt, we can transform moments of uncertainty into opportunities for self-improvement. It can be a quiet whisper or a loud roar, challenging your confidence, your choices, and your path. But what if we looked at doubt differently? What if doubt wasn't just an obstacle, but also a tool for growth? Thank you for joining us, and remember: Worry less and let the music flow! Feel free to say hi on Instagram: @alexandrasilocea
@piano_fortissimo_podcast Or Facebook: @Alexandra.Silocea.Pianist

What does it take to build a career in the modern music industry? Talent alone isn't enough, I hope you agree with me. In today’s compact episode, I’ve put together some tips and advice on what I believe is essential for building a career as a musician today. Of course, the work at the instrument is fundamental—that’s the core of our craft. But beyond that, there are so many other elements that are equally crucial if you want to not just survive but thrive in this industry.

Joining us today is a special guest from Bösendorfer, the renowned piano manufacturer celebrated for its exceptional instruments and rich history: Siebren van Hoog, a master piano technician. As a Bösendorfer Artist for over 20 years, I've had the pleasure of working with Siebren since 2019 and have learned so much over the past few years. He has traveled with me to many concerts, ensuring my pianos are always in the best possible condition. Addressing your questions, we discuss the significance of building a strong relationship with your piano technician, explore whether some pianos are inherently more 'talented' than others, and learn about the path to becoming a piano technician. Thank you for joining us, and remember: Worry less and let the music flow! Feel free to say hi on Instagram: @alexandrasilocea
@piano_fortissimo_podcast Or Facebook: @Alexandra.Silocea.Pianist

... and welcome to my first episode! From my early beginnings in Constanta/Romania, to Bucharest, Vienna, Paris, East Sussex, and back to my beloved Vienna, I’m taking you on a small journey through my musical path. Thank you for joining me, and remember: Worry less and let the music flow! Feel free to say hi on Instagram: @alexandrasilocea
@piano_fortissimo_podcast Or Facebook: @Alexandra.Silocea.Pianist

Welcome to piano fortissimo, the podcast where the world of classical music meets personal stories and professional insights. Hosted by Alexandra Silocea, concert pianist and Bösendorfer artist, this podcast is your gateway to understanding the intricacies of music careers, the artistry behind pianos and other instruments, and much more.