Message from the Artistic Director
Welcome to the Official Website of the Montecatini Piano Festival!
What began as a heartfelt vision to unite people through music has blossomed into an internationally celebrated festival! Since its founding by Concert Pianist & Steinway Artist, Aisa Ijiri in 2019, the Montecatini Piano Festival has grown into a vibrant cultural force, offering a platform for concerts and artistic collaboration.
Set in the picturesque and historical opera town of Montecatini Terme in Tuscany, Italy, the festival takes place amidst thermal springs, stunning architecture and breathtaking landscapes, it’s a perfect backdrop for an immersive musical experience. From intimate soirees and evening concerts to masterclasses, composition workshops and chamber music sessions, the festival offers a rich tapestry of opportunities for aspiring young pianists and seasoned professionals alike. Each year, we welcome a diverse international community including rising talents, renowned professors, composers and passionate music lovers – all brought together by the transformative power of music!
The festival has featured world-renowned resident artists such as Sofya Gulyak (Royal College of Music), Chris Craker (Multi- Grammy nominated producer), Martin Tillman (EMMY-nominated Hollywood film composer), Melanie Spanswick (Composer, Schott Music), LP Duo (University Artists), Carles Lama (Director of KNS Classical), Nicolas Bringuier (Artistic Director of Samson François International Competition), Nima Keshavarzi (Conductor) and Paolo Cognetti (Co-Founder of La Filharmonie) who share their expertise and artistry with the next generation of musicians.
The Montecatini Piano Festival’s global footprint expanded through its close collaboration with the Steinway&Sons, La Filharmonie and Tokyo International Piano Association (TIPA). Prize winners have performed at esteemed TIPA Festivals in venues like Teatro Niccolini (Florence), Kolarac, Belgrade Philharmonic Hall and Steinway Halls in London, Milan, Tokyo and Osaka, bridging cultural traditions and creating new pathways for international careers.
Winners are awarded prestigious performance opportunities across the globe and international album releases with KNS Classical and Karma Sound Studios. Notably, our 2023 winner Ryan Wang (the Winner of 2024 BBC Young Musician of the Year) will make his debut at Steinway&Sons, Milano on 4th September, 2024, supported by Steinway&Sons, Italy!Â
This new website represents an exciting new chapter in our journey, a digital home that reflects the spirit, stories, and people that make the Montecatini Piano Festival so special.
Thank you for visiting. We look forward to welcoming you into our world of music and sharing this extraordinary experience with you!
Thank you for visiting. We look forward to welcoming you into our world of music and sharing this extraordinary experience with you!
Aisa Ijiri
Founder & Artistic Director
