Piano recital with Mike Kaufmann- Portnikow - L van Beethoven, F. Schubert, F. Mendelssohn, G. Gershwin and others

The program consists of original improvisations on the works of
L. van Beethoven, F. Schubert, F. Mendelssohn, G. Gershwin and others.

Mike Kaufmann-Portnikow is a virtuoso pianist, composer and filmmaker from a family of musicians, filmmakers and inventors. He made his piano debut at the age of 4. Musical legends such as Mozart, Art Tatum, George Gershwin, Oscar Peterson and Vladimir Horowitz became his virtual mentors. Piano improvisation shaped the pianist's artistic work from an early age. In addition to the classical piano repertoire, he always cultivated the almost forgotten tradition of stylistic improvisation, but also that of free experimental improvisation and jazz. The piano as an interdisciplinary instrument is just as important to him as a comprehensive, holistic view of music.

Throughout his career, Mike has collaborated with renowned stars of both the European and American scenes, including performances with the Klezmatics (USA), the Glenn Miller USAF Orchestra and participation in the iconic musical "Cats" by Andrew Lloyd Webber.

Over the past five years, Mike has worked closely with the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz, which has further cemented his place on the global music scene. The European press has dubbed him the "King of Improvisation" and the "Wizard of Notes", appreciating his ability to enchant audiences with both his spontaneity and mastery. The Mayor of Edinburgh once decided to attend one of Mike's concerts instead of a soccer match, testament to the magnetic pull of his music.

Mike's performances are a masterful combination of emotions, from fiery expressiveness to tender tenderness. He tries to revive the ideal of the universal pianist, which was still common in the 19th century, by giving improvisation a major role. His music not only reaches the ears; it touches the soul. How does he achieve this? Quite simply: in his hands, the piano becomes as powerful and enchanting as Harry Potter's magic wand.

Copyright: Mike Kaufmann - Portnikow