Andrew Wilde – International Concert Pianist

Members turned out in good numbers, despite horrendous weather, to welcome Andrew for his third visit. Many knew they were in for a treat, not only to hear his wonderful skill on the Yamaha, but also to listen to anecdotes of his early musical upbringing. This started around the age of three years, listening to his mother playing by ear, and remembering the thrill of feeling his fingers playing the upright family piano. In turn, Andrew is committed to enabling young children to develop their interest and love of music through his generous support of the Northwest Music Trust.

A particular highlight this visit was Andrew’s news of his becoming a grandfather to Clara, newborn earlier in the day – a lovely start for a repertoire that included work by Robert Schumann, husband of beloved wife Clara, from ‘Album for the Young -Scenes from Childhood’. This was followed by a Chopin piece, again fittingly a lullaby for the piano, which Andrew explained consisted of variations on a two-bar melody over four measures – the second scherzo starting in B Flat minor and ending in D Flat major.

For all the audience, those with and without any technical musical knowledge, it was a splendid way to spend time transported from the storm, and members will be already looking forward to Andrew’s next visit.