Imagine a competition in which pianists don't compete - they don't even know they're being considered! That's the Gilmore Keyboard Festival, held in Kalamazoo, Michigan every two years. Between festivals, the judges keep their ears tuned for the most exceptional talents emerging in the piano world. The judges confer, and then select the year's artists - who are notified before the Festival itself begins. Standard piano competitions are more gladiatorial, a format that can give an edge to piano-athletes; by contrast, the Gilmore has repeatedly focused its spotlight on inspired musicians like Leif OveAndsnes, PiotrAnderszewski, and Ingrid Fliter.
So which young pianists were honored at the latest Gilmore, and how were they chosen? Find out in the Gilmore Festival broadcasts on IPR Classical every Sunday at 4PM (right after Barney Sherman's show).
The broadcasts feature not only performances but also exclusive interviews and demonstrations that give a behind-the-scenes look at the artists' approach to their craft. Among the guests this season are such piano legends as Peter Serkin and Richard Goode and such Gilmore artists as Conrad Tao and Kirill Gerstein.
Hosting the show is Iowa's own Joan Kjaer, Director of Strategic Communications of the University of Iowa's International Programs, and a familiar voice and significant figure in public radio in Iowa. Join Joan on Sundays at 4PM to hear some of the greatest pianists of today and tomorrow!
