Who or what inspired you to take up the piano, and make it your career? My mother chose the piano for me. I was a small child. I was inspired by Furtwängler conducting Beethoven’s 9th symphony. The slow movement made me cry. I chose music so I could be moved throughout my life.
Who or what were the most important influences on your musical life and career? Denyse Rivière, Marcel Ciampi and Paul Badura-Skoda.
Which performance/recordings are you most proud of? None, except the one I had in my dream last night.
How do you make your repertoire choices from season to season? I never plan. It’s a difficult question to answer. It’s just like a love story; you don’t know who you are going to fall in love with. Each season it’s a new surprise, a new love story.
Favourite pieces to perform? Listen to? I listen like crazy to the music from the film TheUmbrellas of Cherbourg by Michel Legrand.
Who are your favourite musicians? Usually, the greatest dead ones because they are the most inspiring and they are no longer dangerous.
What is your most memorable concert experience? In Kuala Lumpur. When I arrived on stage, there were no pedals on the piano.
What is your idea of perfect happiness? To fly in love (not fall).
