Phillip Dyson is an international concert pianist, renowned for his playing of music from Chopin to Joplin, travelling everywhere from London to San Francisco to perform. I interviewed him about his experiences and inspirations for what he does today.
How did you get into performing?
Somehow, I think I was born to perform. As a boy, I also played the cornet and played in school and local town bands. They always did lots of concerts and so it became very natural for me to make music in public. Subsequent Music College and Post Graduate scholarships facilitated this further. This has stayed with me throughout my life.
What was your first ever concert, and how old were you?
A very long time ago, but I guess as part of a Junior School Concert for parents and families at around 9 or 10 years old.
What’s been your favourite concert to date?
A difficult choice to make. However, maybe at the Kenwood Open-Air Summer Concerts in London as a soloist with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra playing. Sir Malcom Arnold (composer) was present, and there was an audience of 10,000! Also, my Totally Chopin Recital in 2010 for the composer’s Bicentenary Celebrations at St Martin-in-the-Fields, Trafalgar Square. Also my concerts at the Lincoln Center NYC with a full house and standing, with applause and cheers at every break. Wonderful atmosphere!
If you hadn’t become a pianist, what career might you have had?
Maybe something quite different, like a chef. Food greatly interests me.
Does music run in your family?
I have to say sadly, no. An interest, but nothing more.
What made you choose piano out of all instruments?
Actually, I’m not sure I did. A piano arrived and my parents suggested I might like lessons. Fortunately, they were right. The piano is perhaps the most fulfilling self-contained of instruments, with more wonderful music written for it than I can ever begin to imagine.
Who is your musical hero and why?
There are many, but three come to mind. Andre Previn, for his just so complete and full a career as a composer, performer, jazz, film, chamber and soloist. Marvin Hamlisch, a composer, performer in film and musical theatre. Murray Perahia, a pianist, and I admire him for the serious way he conducts his career.
What are you learning at the moment?
Just now, between concert preparations and practice, I am learning some Beethoven, Schubert and Rachmaninov.
Do you have a specific method for learning and practicing new pieces?
New repertoire needs to absorb every part of your being. To learn and know it thoroughly; to live and breathe every note and every phrase. To allow time for this is essential.
Where can people see you next?
I have just returned from a tour in the US, including NYC and Baltimore, Washington DC. Fortunately, local concerts now follow with Leatherhead Theatre on 28th October, and Camberley Theatre on 18th November.
Thanks to Phillip for his time, and interesting responses to the questions asked.
By Amy Pickard, Rosebery School.
