Mastery and Inspiration in NTD’s Piano Competition ‘Is a Very Special Thing’: Pianist

While contestants are anticipating the results of the NTD’s 7th International Piano Competition, audience member were also amazed at the talent that was showcased.

James Bassi is a pianist who works mainly with other musicians.

He was very impressed with the skills that the contestants displayed, especially for playing such a difficult repertoire.

“The demands of the solo repertoire, the skills, the mastery, and inspiration is a very special thing,” said Bassi.

NTD has been hosting piano competitions since 2008, attracting talented artists from around the world.

“It’s wonderful to see the young talent,” said Bassi.

Piano music evolved rapidly after the 1900s, becoming impressionistic and eventually atonal. NTD’s competition aims to uphold the beautiful music from baroque, classical, and romantic eras.

Listening to the contestants humbled Bassi.

“There is a certain level of mastery that comes into playing this repertoire,” he said.

He shared that hearing the music has inspired him to improve as well.

He expressed that he was “inspired to go home and practice and acknowledge that there is such talent and beauty in the world.”

This year’s competition drew in contestants from three Europe, Asia, and North America.

Bassi appreciated the fact that NTD’s competition is international because we can hear the different “voices” of each player.

He also shared his gratitude to NTD for showing support to traditional arts, especially because classical music doesn’t get much support in America.

“Thank you for producing the competition and supporting great musicians and great music,” he said.

“Most of the money in America goes to pop music,” he added.

Where to Watch Winners’ Concert, Awards Ceremony on Oct. 19

Winners’ Concert: Oct. 19, 2 p.m. ET
Awards Ceremony: Oct. 19, 4:50 p.m. ET

Address:

Merkin Hall of Kaufman Music Center
129 West 67th Street, New York, NY 10023