Renowned pianist Kevin Chen, celebrated for his triumphs in prestigious international competitions like the Arthur Rubinstein Piano Master Competition and the Concours de Genève, is poised to enchant Dubai at the Dubai Opera on December 10. As a featured artist in the VIP Classical initiative by SAMIT Event Group, Chen’s upcoming solo recital promises a captivating musical journey.
In an interview with City Times, the pianist reflects on the impact of recent competition successes and their role in gaining recognition and expanding his audience. Here are excerpts from the conversation:
Competitions and Musical Recognition
Kevin Chen acknowledges competitions as powerful tools for artists to gain notice and recognition in the musical world. While grateful for the opportunities to be discovered by wider audiences, he emphasizes the importance of maintaining a separate approach to music. His commitment remains focused on sharing the wonder of music for its own sake, and a supportive audience enables this approach.
Performing in Grand Venues: Pianist Kevin Chen
Recent milestones include performances in grand venues, where the ambience allowed for a profound connection with the audience. Chen finds inspiration in the warm and welcoming atmosphere, where familiar faces in the audience add to the magical feeling of collective energy. These moments on stage propel his enthusiasm and inspire innovative interpretations.
Making Classical Music Accessible: Pianist Kevin Chen
Acknowledging the perception of classical music as esoteric, Chen emphasizes the importance of selecting a repertoire that balances familiarity and novelty. By offering pieces spanning various eras, genres, and emotional landscapes, the compilation flows through a journey that appeals to a broad audience. Initiatives like the VIP Classical series by SAMIT Event Group contribute to making classical music more accessible.
The Universal Language of Music: Pianist Kevin Chen
Reflecting on the universality of music, Chen notes that everyone assigns their own meaning to it based on their experiences. Unlike words, music transcends language barriers, reaching and resonating with diverse audiences. This quality aligns well with multicultural societies, such as Dubai and Canadian society, allowing music to transcend cultural boundaries.
Future Aspirations: Pianist Kevin Chen
Looking ahead, Chen takes a gradual approach to his musical journey, focusing on enjoyment and continual learning. His current focus includes exploring new works from the vast repertoire and experimenting with incorporating elements of other art forms into future performances. With a step-by-step approach to upcoming projects, Chen aims to derive pleasure from his musical pursuits and enrich the lives of others with beauty and a sense of shared humanity.
Also Read
Launch of 2024 Heat Alert in the UAE Amid Worsening Climate Change
Geminids Meteor Shower: Anticipate 120 Shooting Stars Per Hour Illuminating the UAE Sky