Monegasque pianist Stella Almondo will return to the stage in Monaco on Sunday, fresh from receiving one of the classical music world’s most prestigious distinctions…
The 20-year-old was awarded a Diapason d’Or earlier this month for her album Ange et Démon, dedicated to Franz Liszt. Almondo described the award as a welcome surprise and the culmination of years of work on the recording.
Liszt has played a central role in her musical life since childhood, having first inspired her interest in classical music and the piano. Almondo describes the Hungarian composer as an extraordinary and extravagant figure whose music combines energy, spirituality and contrasting emotions.
The accolade follows another milestone this summer, when Almondo performed before around 50,000 people in Royan on France’s Atlantic coast. She chose Rachmaninoff’s Third Piano Concerto for the occasion, fulfilling a personal ambition whilst introducing the work to a much larger audience.
Sunday’s recital at the Grimaldi Forum will offer something different. Almondo plans to personally introduce the programme, sharing stories and legends surrounding the compositions she will perform.
The concert will also explore music from her recordings and move through contrasting periods and styles, promising an energetic homecoming for one of Monaco’s most exciting young classical musicians.
The recital begins at 18:00, with a limited number of places still available.
Image: Stella Almondo Instagram