In his debut in Chile, Macedonian pianist Simon Trpčeski approached the leading role in a surprising way, resulting in a fresh, even novel interpretation, which was enhanced thanks to the good chemistry that existed between him, Bortolameolli and the orchestra. Trpčeski displayed a very polished keyboard technique, but always allowed the material to shine through clearly.

Trpčeski has shown that he has guts, as well as sensitivity, two great qualities that he expresses not only on the keys, but with his whole being. There is no denying that he is likable, the guy. And generous, too. Indeed, he heard the request for an encore and responded to the audience by performing twice rather than once through a Macedonian dance and a waltz by Edward Grieg. Add to that a very fit OSM, an enthusiastic orchestral direction and a highly communicative pianist and you have the keys to a real ovation; not the kind that Montrealers give to everyone so that they can tell themselves that they were right to come, but rather the kind that are irrepressible and come from the guts.

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Soloist Simon Trpčeski performed the Emperor Concerto to an enthusiastic audience. The beloved second movement was especially appreciated for its model interpretation. His ability to connect with listeners and the orchestra was noted. For an encore, he played Tchaikovsky's Autumn Melody, a piece dedicated by the pianist to peace.

The Milwaukee Symphony will open its Classics season Sept. 27-29, with a program that includes Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 1, featuring Macedonian pianist Simon Trpčeski. MSO Backstage writer David Lewellen spoke to Trpčeski by phone recently. He shared: "I’m very happy that the Milwaukee Symphony chose Rachmaninoff’s first concerto, because it’s not often played and it’s my very favorite of the Rachmaninoff concertos. It will be my first time in the new hall, and I’m happy to open the season. The concerto is fresh and full of energy. It’s a showcase for Rachmaninoff as he was developing as a musician. Despite his youth, there’s lots of unexpected maturity in the choice of musical material and the orchestration, the instrumental colors and combinations."

Standing ovations have often been somewhat routine. A ritual where you can sometimes wonder if it isn't just that. It belongs and everyone gets up out of politeness, sort of. Not so at the Gävlesymfonikerna's season premiere on Friday evening. Simon Trpčeski completely captivated the audience in a rare powerful and intense performance of Brahms' Second Piano Concerto. The stormy cheers afterwards never wanted to end. And on the charming banter from Trpčeski's side and a few encores that kept the mood high.

Simon Trpčeski's upcoming concert on March 20-22, 2024 has been selected by Gramophone as one of the most exciting concerts to look forward to in North America for the season. He will be performing Rachmaninov’s First Piano Concerto, with esteemed conductor Jakub Hrůša leading the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.

In the almost sold-out Tonhalle, many subscribers are already raving about it. Some even came home from vacation a few days early, just to hear "Rachmaninoff Two." It paid off for them. This is evident from the beaming faces at the exit. Trpčeski, a native of Macedonia - a reserved grand seigneur with a fabulous, confident pianist technique - sets accents with slender hands, delays, but then really pushes the pedal to the metal. To avoid cramping his fingers, he often shakes his hands loosely before they fly over the keys at a rapid pace. He masters cascades of fast runs coolly - like all virtuoso passages. He shows himself to be a gentleman of quiet tones, always controlling his temperament and volume. In the lyrical catchy tunes, Trpčeski combines dreamy vulnerability with elegant lines. Pearly trills and languishing love songs sound magical.

Simon Trpčeski, who performed for the first time with the orchestra, seemed to communicate with Chauhan like music soul mates. What the Macedonian makes of Rachmaninov's piano concerto is rarely heard: he and the orchestra let the music flow in a transparent, exciting, tight and yet passionate way, freeing it from heaviness and exaggerated sweetness.

A concert by Simon Trpčeski, one of the leading pianists of today, was held in the church of Santa Maria in Punta, which ended the music program of the XXXVIII Grad Teatar festival in a magnificent way. Trpčeski said after the performance that he dedicated this concert to his parents. "My life is music, music is my life. I like to share my emotions with the audience and I am glad that we experienced it together tonight at the Grad Teatar festival."

Simon Trpčeski will give a recital tonight in Budva, with a diverse program that expresses the varied human condition. Leading up to the concert, in this interview with Vijesti, Simon discusses the music scene in the Balkans, the role of classical music in society, the particular challenges of being a musician in this world today, and advice to younger colleagues. He also announces an exciting and busy upcoming 2024/2025 season.