“I want to connect generations with each other. One of my goals is to inspire young musicians.”
Internationally acclaimed pianist and composer, Daniel Verstappen, will be performing at St John’s Smith Square (29 October) as part of his World Tour. Here, Daniel shares his career highlights, and what audiences should expect from his upcoming performance.
1. What is your most memorable musical moment?
On February 5th 2022, I was invited to perform at the World Expo in Dubai as part of 'Belgian Day', in the presence of the Belgian King and Queen. Being able to represent my country in front of our King and Queen was a unique experience that I will cherish for life. Being able to speak to Queen Mathilde herself and present her with my album 'Reconnection' was the icing on the cake.
I also enjoyed experiencing so many other cultures and countries at the World Expo. In fact, I got invited to perform in the Romanian Pavilion as well, where I played on a grand piano by the leading German piano manufacturer Blüthner.
2. Why are you looking forward to performing at St John’s Smith Square?
First of all, it's an amazing venue, an amazing acoustic. I love the grandeur from this venue. Above that, it's a very special moment, because this concert will open my 2023/24 World Tour, which encompasses world-famous concert halls, such as Carnegie Hall (New York), Sydney Opera House, Harpa (Iceland), and more.
3. What should audiences expect from the concert?
Well, I like to surprise, so all I can say is, come with a full open mind and be inspired! I am a classically trained pianist in a modern world, where I want to connect generations with each other. In my concerts I also like to reach young audiences, and this is one of my goals, to inspire young musicians.
On top, I want the audience to be captivated in an experience. I have played the piano since I was five years old - the piano became my soulmate, a reflection of who and what I am. Developing my skills and my own musical style defines who I am, and I hope the audience will feel this too.
4. Tell us about the programme, a cross-over between classical and modern?
This concert is part of my Reconnection tour, which means I will perform songs from my album 'Reconnection', together with viola player Marina Barskaya, (Brussels Philharmonic).
We will also perform our own arrangements of famous classical masterpieces including the 'Four Seasons', 'Swan Lake', 'Danse Macabre', 'In The Hall Of The Mountain King', and more.
5. In your way of inspiring young audiences and giving them a stage, I heard you have a support act?
In many of my concerts, I create a bridge between cultures, which manifest in inviting local musicians or choirs on stage. Straight after the concert in London, we travel to Iceland for my next concert in Harpa. A choir from Reykjavik will join us, performing in my compositions, including my newest-not released song yet, 'Ice on fire', inspired by the island of fire and ice.
For the concert in St John's Smith Square, I connected with the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, and I’m very enthusiastic that Trio Casella will open the concert. One of the Guildhall’s piano students will also be joining me for my composition ‘Floating’.
I am really looking forward to it!
To find out more about Daniel's upcoming performance, and to buy tickets, CLICK HERE.