Artistic Director

Alan Kogosowski

Alan Kogosowski, one of the world's leading pianists, is internationally renowned as a unique musical personality. One of the foremost pianists of his generation, he has spread his talents richly over many areas related to the great musical repertoire he so ably commands. He has proved an imaginative presenter of events, television spokesman, and mentor to the younger generation. He has brought music to audiences in an exciting way that above all makes people feel involved and happy to be a part of this wonderful expression of the human spirit.

Now back home in Melbourne, Kogosowski is forging new paths as a virtual cultural ambassador, in particular through his ground-breaking initiative, Australian Masterclass and Concert Program.

Alan has often given his time, energy and talent for fund-raising efforts by the Alfred Hospital, led by his friend Tony Charlton. He is a frequent guest at the annual Don Bradman luncheon at the MCG – the 'Don' having been a passionate amateur pianist himself, with a particular love of the music of Chopin. Alan has also lent his talents in support of Rotary on numerous occasions, as well as the Leukaemia Foundation and other important causes.

Well remembered by many in Australia from his days as a child prodigy, when he won the national television contest Showcase, then appeared on the Ed Sullivan Show, Alan moved to London in the 1980s, where he conceived and presented the prestigious concert series Schubertiades at Sotheby's for ten years. In this iconic series of concert presentations, Alan invited outstanding performers from around the world, both instrumental and vocal, to come to London to participate in these concerts at Sotheby's. The series acquired a cult following, with members of the royal family often attending, foremost among Kogosowski's admirers being Princess Diana and the Queen Mother.

Moving to America, Kogosowski orchestrated two major works for piano and orchestra, by Rachmaninoff and Chopin. Premiered by the Detroit Symphony Orchestra under the great conductor Neeme Järvi and broadcast nationally (the CD recording goes 'straight to the top of our list,' said The American Record Guide). These important additions to the concert repertoire were followed by a 6-part TV series on the life of Frederic Chopin, conceived, written and produced, as well as performed, by Kogosowski. This series was hailed by the New York Times as 'outstanding.' The series is now available as a double-DVD set.

Alan has written two important books – Genius of the Piano, a comprehensive account of the life of Chopin as well as Mastering the Chopin Études the history and the art of piano playing (available as e-books from www.kogosowski.com).