Something of a departure here. 2009 is the second year of the Radio 3 Pianothon ; this year's location was Leeds, to coincide with the final weekend of the Leeds International Piano Competition . Cue a bit of a mad 1 day cross-country escapade, but it was enjoyable! I arrived at Leeds University Clothworkers ' Centenary Concert Hall in time for the last 20 mins or so of the morning session, including the first of 2 'piano party' jam sessions -guest professional Noriko Ogawa and volunteers from the audience/performers, playing almost at sight. After a short break the afternoon session was under way, showcasing a wide variety of talent. From early/mid teens (some of the performers reminded me of myself 10 years ago) to physicists and others, the range was very impressive, some performers of an extremely high standard indeed. Radio 3's Sarah Walker was hosting and chatted to some of the performers beforehand, with Noriko Ogawa on hand to give out compliments and ...
The varied musings of a music maniac...