3 questions to Yulianna Avdeeva

What role does music play in your life?

My perception is that I have been surrounded by music since my childhood. My father had a few records which he played frequently, and there was a piano in the house which was very attractive to me. That is why I feel music to be something very natural, because it was simply always a part of my life, and at the same time it is a necessity, as I cannot imagine my life without it. The inner exploration of music does not only take place directly, when playing the piano. It is a process that happens in my soul and my head almost incessantly, sometimes without me even noticing. Music allows us to experience all kinds of human feelings, and it helps us find strength and hope in very difficult moments and utter joy and cheerfulness in happy times.

You will perform the Piano Concerto No. 1 by Piotr Tchaikovsky at the Charity Concert on the first Sunday in Advent. How would you describe its role in your repertoire?

It was one of the first piano concerti I ever heard. I was incredibly enthusiastic and moved by it, and of course it was my dream to play it myself! My enthusiasm only grew over the years, the different atmospheres in this work are absolutely unique. They demand a special mindset during a performance, and I love playing this concerto!

How would you describe your personal approach to the Concerto?

The Concerto is very rich in contrasts. The grandiose introduction in the first movement gives way to a light, even somewhat humorous theme derived from a folk song, followed by a lyrical episode with endless melodies. I am particularly fascinated by the manner in which Tchaikovsky also expands his melodic side in this concerto. That is why the second movement with its pastoral atmosphere is the centrepiece for me. The last movement is a passionate folk dance which sends sparks flying and ends with a great, beautiful apotheosis. I am delighted to be playing this wonderful piano concerto with the Gürzenich Orchestra and Stanislav Kochanovsky!

Yulianna Avdeeva will perform the piano Concerto No. 1 by Piotr Tchaikovsky at the Charity Concert on the first Sunday in Advent.