22 February, Glebe — Concerts for All launched its 2025 series with two events on Chopin's birthday: a Chopin Masterclass and its Young Maestros Community Concert themed 'Around the World'. Held at the new Master Music Studio in Glebe, both events had the advantage of reaching a wider audience and using a Steinway B-211 piano from Theme & Variations.
2:30 PM: Chopin Masterclass with Christopher Malek
Polish pianist, Christopher Malek, led the masterclass of three young pianists: Léanore Gillet, Angus Chak and Erica Zhu. Before they took to the stage, Christopher, commonly called Chris, underscored the importance of seeing beyond wrong notes and focusing instead on what makes music effective—a meaningful reminder to all who were gathered as they celebrated the composer's birthday.
Léanore opened with the melancholic Nocturne No. 20 in C-sharp minor which Chris lauded for her heartfelt interpretation. An exchange between them followed, highlighting the performer's intent or message, and how it can be communicated musically and through stage presence. Chris drew from his extensive performance experience and engaged not only Léanore but also the audience in a lively discussion. He further demonstrated a practicing technique using repeating notes, which help train the mind to hear and shape sparse musical phrases effectively. His advice on preparing like a conductor and tonal colours also captivated Léanore and the audience.
Angus Chak followed with his performance of Prelude in D-flat Major Op. 28 No. 15. Chris remarked on the nostalgic emotion in the performance, which the audience echoed in unison. They discussed musical phrasing, techniques, body language and even the dreaded nerves that musicians consistently face. To this, a shift in perspective does wonders, said Chris: instead of performers fearing for themselves and their possible mistakes, they should instead focus on the composer and the music. Angus absorbed the wealth of insight—he later incorporated it into a poignant performance in the Young Maestros community concert that followed.
To close the masterclass, Erica performed the delicate 2nd movement of Chopin Concerto No. 1. It was such a moving interpretation and Chris strengthened it further with advice on imitating orchestral instruments, interpreting key changes, and shaping melody—the melody being "the most precious thing ever."
4:30 PM: Around the World with the Young Maestros
As the audience flowed into the hall, Concerts for All saw a considerable growth in new attendees. When its director, Yichao Ma, asked who among the audience were first-time classical concert goers, several hands shot in the air; the majority were young children and their parents. She encouraged little ones to sit in the front rows, even on the floor to help them settle.
The concert's signature Music Trivia was the perfect activity to warm them up and draw focus into the music. Children enthusiastically identified commonly known classical works such as Beethoven's iconic Für Elise, Tchaikovsky's Swan Lake (Swan Theme), and Offenbach's Can-Can.
As its theme 'Around the World' suggested, the community concert celebrated music from across the globe. China, Poland, Austria, Russia and Germany were among the countries represented in the performances. Each participant introduced their pieces, the composers, their origins, and some interesting facts that made them unique.
Programme
Wang Jianzhong: Silver Clouds Chasing The Moon
Joseph Haydn: Sonata in B Minor, Hob.XVI:32 - III. Finale. Presto
Mikhail Glinka: Variations on a Theme by Mozart
Frédéric Chopin: Prelude in D-flat Major Op. 28 No. 15
Mozart Sonata No. 10 in C Major, K. 330: I. Allegro moderato
Frédéric Chopin: Ballade No. 3 in A♭ major, Op. 47
Alana Gao (Violin) & Jayde Wang (Piano)
Johannes Brahms: Violin Sonata No. 3 in D Minor, Op. 108 - I. Allegro
After the concert, children were drawn to the instruments ready for them to try: the Steinway B-211 and a Kawai GL-20 grand pianos, a violin, cello, and the lever harp of performer, Bella Sun. It was a fun and engaging close to the concert and the packed afternoon, hoping to inspire children to learn a musical instrument.
Building Accessible Musical Communities
The success of this dual event exemplifies Concerts for All's commitment to making classical music accessible and engaging for new audiences. By combining educational masterclasses with interactive performances, these events create pathways for both musical growth and community connection.
This engagement strategy continues to build bridges between outstanding young musicians and new audiences throughout Sydney. As Concerts for All continues its 2025 concert series, these community-centred events remain vital to nurturing both the classical musicians and audiences of the future.
Come and join us for our next Young Maestros Community Concert on 22 March at Master Music Studio—Animal Themed and accompanied by an engaging story:
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