The 5th Annual Piano Showcase at the Tower Theatre features concert pianist Sean Chen, a genius at displaying the virtuosity and versatility of the grand instrument. An award-winning classical pianist (Cliburn International Piano Competition, American Pianists Awards), Chen is also in demand for creative collaborations and commissions. His exceptional transcriptions for the piano range from Beethoven’s 9th Symphony to video game music and everything in between.

Chen’s musical flexibility is a perfect fit for this event's emphasis on the uniqueness of blending genres. Currently Artist-in-Residence at the University of Missouri-Kansas City Conservatory, he continues to appear in solo and concerto performances throughout the United States and has been featured with the Sunriver Music Festival Orchestra several times. Given his natural inclination for teaching and approachable personality, Mr. Chen is particularly in demand for appearances that combine performances with masterclasses and artist conversations, which have brought him to such institutions as the Cleveland Institute of Music, Indiana University, University of British Columbia, University of Houston Moores School, the Los Angeles Music Center, Young Artist World Piano Festival, and several Music Teachers’ Associations throughout the country.

Saturday, April 1 at the Tower Theatre will highlight Chen’s multifaceted expertise.

 

At 3:00 p.m., all ages are invited right up onto the Tower stage for the Masterclass & Musical Conversations session. You don’t have to be a pianist to enjoy a masterclass; you just have to enjoy music! A masterclass is a great opportunity to be a “fly on the wall” as an advanced young pianist performs and receives spontaneous feedback from our master, Sean Chen.
7:30 p.m. is the concert featuring Sean Chen. This full-length solo performance of virtuosic piano pieces includes some of Chen’s brilliant original transcriptions and compositions.