The inaugural Master Music Piano Festival & Competition takes place across two weekends in June 2019 at Clarendon Muse in Watford and aims to promote local talent by offering young musicians a superb platform to experience and take part in fine music-making.

Featuring a set of unmissable recitals by leading young pianists, the Master Music Festival will also host competitions scheduled for all levels of performance and ability together with a special children’s concert.

The full programme:

Nicholas McCarthy – Piano Recital - Saturday, June 8, 7pm

British pianist Nicholas McCarthy was born without his right hand and only began to play the piano at the age of fourteen. He went on to study at the prestigious Royal College of Music in London, becoming the first left-hand-only pianist to graduate in the College’s history. A passionate educator and motivational speaker, McCarthy champions left-hand alone repertoire, music that developed rapidly following the First World War as a result of injuries suffered on the battlefield. Expect an awe-inspiring recital of repertoire ranging from Bartok to Gershwin via Scriabin and Strauss.

Artur Cimirro – Piano Recital - Sunday, June 9, 7pm

Brazilian pianist Artur Cimirro enjoys an eclectic career as a composer, arranger, writer and art critic. As part of his recital, Mr Cimirro will present a striking range of his own compositions and arrangements.

Michael Harvey – Piano Recital - Saturday, June 15, 7pm

Australian pianist, composer and teacher Michael Harvey has dazzled audiences at prestigious venues around the world with his virtuosic technique, individual sound and charismatic personality. His recital is bound to offer pianistic brilliance, creative sensitivity and a kaleidoscope of colours.

Ji Liu – Piano Recital - Sunday, June 16, 7pm

Chinese pianist Ji Liu has positioned himself as one of the brightest stars in classical music today. In addition to topping the classical charts on numerous occasions, he also delights audiences around the world with his thoughtful and intelligent recitals. Be sure to expect a sensational evening of music making of the highest level.

Watford Observer:

Children’s Piano Concert - Saturday, June 8, 3pm

This eagerly anticipated children’s concert will feature pianist Ji Liu, who will perform a collection of short fun pieces for piano and a narrated solo piano performance of Prokofiev’s popular ‘Peter and the Wolf’.

Piano Competitions – Saturday, June 8, 4pm to 6pm, and Saturday, June 15, 2pm to 6pm

On Saturday, June 8, and Saturday, June 15, the festival will feature piano competitions for all ages and abilities Each participant will receive valuable and constructive written feedback. Medals, certificates and prizes up to £150 will be awarded to participants who achieve first, second and third place. Entry forms are available at www.mastermusicpublications.com/product/festival_2019

Clarendon Muse, 70 Rickmansworth Road, Watford, Saturday, June 8, Sunday, June 9, Saturday, June 15, and Sunday, June 16.