In January, International concert pianist Philip Martin visited Ampleforth for a day of recitals and masterclasses. He had just returned from his native Dublin where he premiered his third piano concerto with the National Symphony of Ireland.
His recital featured works by Chopin, Gershwin, a trio of jazz pieces composed by Martin himself and music by the lesser known American composer Louis Moreau Gottschalk. Mr Martin has just finished recording his eighth CD for the Hyperion label of Gottschalk’s music and it was clear from his performances that he has a special affinity with the composer. Mr Martin combined a dazzling technique with great warmth and musicianship. It was evident to all listening that Mr Martin was a musician of exceptional ability. His performance left a lasting impression on all those present. During the day, 20 pianists from Ampleforth College performed for Mr Martin in four masterclass sessions. All the students clearly enjoyed the day and many commented on Mr Martin’s warm and supportive manner.
The following day the Keyboard department from Ampleforth College collaborated with the Keyboard department of Chetham’s School of Music, Manchester for a joint public masterclass with Mr Martin in the Helmsley Arts Centre. Three students from Manchester taught by Murray McLachlan performed alongside three students from Ampleforth. All students performed exceptionally well and gained much from this public platform. Students performed music by Gershwin, Beethoven, Chopin, Martin, Rachmaninov and Scriabin.
Speaking of Mr Martin’s visit Patrick MacBeth (Head of Keyboard, Ampleforth) said:
‘The past two days have been a great opportunity for our young pianists. Philip Martin is an internationally recognised performer, teacher and composer and we have been fortunate that he was able to take time out of his hectic schedule to visit Ampleforth. I was especially pleased for those students who performed in the public masterclass. They all played excellently and with great composure. I am grateful to Murray McLachlan (Head of Keyboard at Chetham’s School of Music) for sending up Mary Ann, Yasmin and Jamie to play. Again they played exceptionally well and are a credit to Chetham’s School of Music. I would also like to offer a special word of thanks to Jean Kershaw at the Helmsley Arts Centre for staging this event.’