I am sometimes reminded how lucky I am to be a pianist in Africa and contrary to some folks being able to make a living from this art form some regard as a luxury (and therefor not essential). Being a musician has made me respect the power of music even more than a listener in an audience would be able to. The reason is: I have witnessed the direct effect of music on peoples lives. I am lucky to receive positive comments about my music from fans all over the world on a daily basis. This not only makes me humble but emphasises the responsibility of sustaining the quality.

In July I travelled to Switzerland with my trio for concerts and master classes and the astounding positivity I experienced while teaching young students from different continents was once again a reminder of the joy this job offers me. Being able to perform in Europe has a distinct quality and the friendships and circle of music lovers I encounter grows with each visit – yet another reason to feel lucky. Tonight I performed for more than 1000 kids taking part in one of South Africa’s most prestigious choir competitions and could see on their faces how the music I enjoy playing makes them feel: excited, happy and full of life.

In August I am continuing my TEN CHAIR TOUR of my favourite Steinways across South Africa with Roodepoort Theatre (3 August) and then my hometown of Bloemfontein (7 August) and Kroonstad (8 August). Performing this solo repertoire is such a contrast to the crossover Baroque repertoire I perform with my trio at the moment. It gives me endless joy to be in the musical company of fellow Steinway Artists like Rachmaninov, Gershwin and Busoni. If you are able to attend any of these concerts I would like to hear from you and share your experience during my search for the mysterious love letter in the piano chair.