Music
Q & A with Legendary Pianist, David Helfgott
One of Australia’s best-known and most-celebrated pianists, David Helfgott, will perform at the iconic Sydney Opera House on August 16. Helfgott has had a fascinating life – which was portrayed by Academy Award winner Geoffrey Rush in the film, Shine – and we caught up with David recently to hear more about his career, passion for music and his upcoming performance.
Ticketmaster: David, in 1996 you played an unprecedented four sold-our performances at the Sydney Opera House. Are you excited to return there for this performance?
David Helfgott: It is a huge privilege as the Sydney Opera House is one of the great concert halls of the world.
TM: Who have been the biggest influences on your career?
DH: My wife Gillian. When I married her the whole world opened up for me but I’ve also had wonderful teachers and so many people supporting me throughout my life.
TM: What is your favourite piece of music to play?
DH: It is the Rachmaninov Third Piano Concerto, which I’ll play at this concert. I have loved it since I first played it at 17.
TM: You have performed all over the globe and played at some of the most iconic venues in the world. Which one is your favourite?
DH: Wherever I am at the moment is always my favourite place! And I am so grateful to be giving concerts in such wonderful venues around the world.
TM: What has been the highlight of your career so far?
DH: Playing at the Academy Awards in 1997 and Geoffrey Rush getting best actor for his portrayal of me.
TM: The movie Shine was a major success and you provided the soundtrack. Did you enjoy working on the film?
DH: I worked with David Hirschfelder and that was great. The music he composed is wonderful.
TM: If you could meet any one person – living or dead – who would it be?
DH: Serge Rachmaninov and Franz Liszt.
TM: What can people expect to see when they attend your performance at the Sydney Opera House?
DH: I think it will be a unique experience as I have never played, or seen played, the Rachmaninov Concerto on two pianos, apart from rehearsing it with Robert Gilmore at the Royal College of Music in 1969. The two-piano version will give the audience a chance to hear all of the wonderful Rachmaninov harmonies. It is such a romantic work.
Click here to purchase tickets for David Helfgott’s performance at the Sydney Opera House on August 16.
