– The Times, Malta
Nicholas McCarthy McCarthy was born without his right hand but this has not stopped him from conquering the heights of the music world. Taking up piano at the age of 14, he became the first left-hand-only pianist to graduate from the Royal College of Music in London.
Along the way, he battled doubters and negativity. Now, as well as being a world-class pianist, he is also a motivational speaker, sharing his unique experience with audiences around the world.
McCarthy will give two lecture recitals, one describing the 200-year history of piano repertoire written for the left hand, and another that tells his own remarkable story, featuring works by some of the greatest composers of classical music, including Strauss, Bartók, Rachmaninoff, and a newly commissioned piece by Julie Cooper. (Beyond the online programme, there is a live concert of 2 left-hand Concertos by Nicholas McCarthy to be held in the 2022 “No Limits”! Stay tuned!)
This is a fantastic opportunity to hear a great musician and learn more about the amazing practice of left hand pianism.
Online Programme
Registration starts on: 9 Feb 2021 (Tue) 10am
Available from: 8 Mar 2021 (Mon) 10am — 31 Mar 2021 (Wed) 11pm
Approx 45 mins for each Lecture Recital, conducted in English with Chinese and English subtitles
One Hand, One War, One City
- Bach / Gounod / Wittgenstein
- Ave Maria
- Scriabin
- Prelude and Nocturne in G minor for Left Hand, Op 9
- Bach/Brahms
- Chaconne in D minor
Nicholas McCarthy: My Story
- Richard Strauss / Mann
- “Morgen” Op 27, No 4
- Rachmaninoff / McCarthy
- Prelude in G minor Op 23, No 5
- Bartók
- Etude for the Left Hand
- Julie Cooper
- Galilean Moons
Arranging and Composing for Left Hand Piano
Nicholas McCarthy in conversation with Julie Cooper
Nicholas McCarthy Piano Masterclass
Nicholas McCarthy was the first one-handed pianist to graduate from the Royal College of Music in its 135-year history. He has toured the world to critical acclaim. McCarthy has also devoted himself to music education, encouraging young people to appreciate classical music. In this masterclass, he will teach piano techniques and share ideas with four young local pianists. All four pianists come from different backgrounds, with varying experiences of learning piano. Two of them are visually impaired while the other two have participated in international competitions. A unique experience, not to be missed!
Available on the “No Limits” website
15/3 10am – 31/3 11pm
Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
Conducted in English with Chinese and English subtitles
Moderator
Sanders Lau
Venue and Technical Support: Tom Lee Music