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Japanese pianist Nobuyuki Tsujii |
By Lee Hyo-won
Korea Times Correspondant
FORT WORTH, Texas ― The final round of the 13th Van Cliburn International Piano Competition is underway and one of the six finalists, Japan's 20-year-old Nobuki Tsujii, is attracting special attention.
Blind since birth, Tsujii states his firm belief that ``there are no barriers in the field of music.''
Japanese music critic Nahoko Gotoh, who writes for ``Ongaku no tomo'' magazine, said Tsujii communicated through the piano before he learned to speak, which came rather late, around age five or six.
In a brief Q&A session with reporters backstage Saturday following his performance, Tsujii gave rather simple explanations for his work. He paid attention to ``sensitive tones'' for the Chopin piece and then offering something ``bolder'' for the Rachmaninov. He chooses his repertoire according to what he likes, and then consults with his teacher. He likes to communicate with the audience. Warm support from the people around him helped him give his top performance.
Frankly, what he had to say proved to be of little consequence for an interesting story. But he does not need to be eloquent, for his music speaks for itself.
The young man enthralled listeners Thursday with a delicate rendition of Chopin's Piano Concerto No. 1. While his interpretation was rather in the safe lines, he showed a most amazing chemistry and rhythm with the orchestra. According to Maestro James Conlon, who is leading the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra opposite the young competitors, the pianist listens to the breathing of the maestro and orchestra members for timing.
Tsujii moved many to tears on Saturday with Rachmaninov's Piano Concerto No. 2., where he demonstrated verve and a flair for rhythm, and the bell sounds and winds of Russia were palpable in his magical melodies.
According to Gotoh, Tsujii has recorded a couple of albums under the Avex label in Japan, and is known as ``the blind musical genius.'' His physical ``difference,'' rather than impairment, certainly makes him stand out and inspires others in noble ways. But it is his music that ultimately moves you.
He will give his final recital at 1:30 p.m., Sunday (local time). The final results will be announced at 5 p.m., Sunday (local time). The competition is being streamed live online in its entirety at www.cliburn.tv. Video clips of past performances are available as well. For recital ticket reservations and more information, visit www.cliburn.org.
hyowlee@koreatimes.co.kr |
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