ABC 476 4954
The Sydney International Piano Competition of Australia (SIPCA) attracts some of the finest young pianists from all over the world, and has established for some, careers beyond the competition stage.
A favourite performer and winner of the 2008 competition has been Russian pianist, Konstantin Shamray (taking five other prizes, including the People’s Choice Prize).
Shamray has performed in Moscow and many other Russian cities, as well as in Italy, Spain, Germany, Netherlands, Serbia, Austria, Czech Republic, USA, Singapore and China. He has gone on to perform throughout Australia as a soloist and concerto artist.
Of course, competitions can be graveyards for some contestants, and even winners. But the assured production and release of a recording, ensures longevity of, at least, the major prize winners in the minds of Australian listeners.
As part of winning the competition, the ABC commits to releasing a recording of music, and whilst this recording is entitled “In Recital”, it actually is a studio recording (without audience).
The clarity of sound, strength and subtlety of tone, beauty of the instrument and the artistic understanding of Shamray make this CD a must have for the piano enthusiast, teacher or student. His playing is commanding and rich with passion in the Piano Sonata in G (Tchaikovsky), Piano Sonata No 8 (Prokofiev) and selected Scriabin works (Fantasie Op 28, Album Leaf Op 58, Fragility Op 51, Nuances from Four Pieces Op 56).
The recording gives added kudos to the competition, which will next be seen in Sydney in 2016.