It gives me great pleasure to introduce ArtePiano Masterclasses 2020. The aim was to create a space for students of any age and level as well as for young professional pianists where they can work and practise intensively for an upcoming examination, competition, concert or audition. The masterclasses are also tailored for beginners and amateur pianists who would like to throw themselves into a full on weekend of tuition, music making and performances. There will be three weekends throughout the year which will take place in the picturesque German town of Sankt Goar, situated on the west bank of the Rhine river and which magnificent mountains are dotted with castle ruins. Our venue is the Sankt Goar International Music Festival and Academy (SGIMFA) that is owned and managed by world renown opera singers and teachers Falko Hönisch, who is also the Mayor of Sankt Goar, and Dr. Emilio Pons. Our permanent faculty of teachers for 2020/21 will include myself and the pianist and teacher Mark Nixon who currently is the Head of Keyboard at King’s College School Wimbledon in London. We are also very excited to launch our first ArtePiano E-competition for young professional pianists! The winner will be able to join ArtePiano Masterclasses in November 2020 and will also be offered a solo recital at APM in June 2021. I would like to invite all pianists who are interested in furthering their pianistic skills to join ArtePiano Masterclasses – a weekend filled with outstanding tuition and performances where you will meet like minded musicians and create wonderful memories together.

Niel Du Preez