ARTISTS:

The 4 competitors who have reached the final
Hungarian National Philharmonic
György Vashegyi – conductor

PROGRAMME:

Liszt: Totentanz
Liszt: Piano Concerto in E flat major
Liszt: Piano Concerto in A-major

The Master Series opening event is among the most significant musical events in Pécs in 2026. This year, Filharmonia Hungary hosts the Franz Liszt International Piano Competition. The piano has the largest repertoire of any instrument, and performers aim to emulate legendary virtuosos. A key trait of the instrument is that its potential is often limited only by the player’s skill. Outstanding young pianists from around the world continue to emerge—from Hungary to America to the Far East. In early September, selected finalists arrive in Pécs for live rounds judged by an international jury. The competition has received 76 applications from 24 countries across four continents.

In the orchestral final, only the four top contestants compete. Participants must choose two of three possible works beforehand, and the jury then selects which piece to perform. These three compositions for piano and orchestra exemplify the Romantic virtuoso piano repertoire. All three present the soloist with highly demanding technical challenges: rapid runs, powerful chords, octave sequences, large leaps, and stark dynamic contrasts. Moreover, the piano often competes with the orchestra’s full sound, requiring great stamina and precise technical control. The performer must also work sensitively with the orchestra, shaping not only virtuosity but also dramatic and lyrical nuances. No other sport demands that finalists be as vulnerable, expressive, delicate, and attuned to subtle nuances at such a critical stage—cooperating, breathing together, and making an impact on dozens of strangers, often communicating only through quick glances. The instrument becomes an ally, as does the orchestra.