Nikita Lukinov
The Prince of Pianists at St Mary’s Perivale
Hugh Mather said it all really at the end of a recital where once again this young Russian,Scottish based pianist proved himself to be a Prince of Pianists : ‘ A staggering performance of a largely Russian programme this dramatically thundery afternoon by Nikita Lukinov. An exceptional pianist, phenomenal technique, such a noble style of playing. An unforgettable recital of breathtaking proportions, well worth rewatching on our website. And such interesting, entertaining and eloquent introductions to each of his 7 pieces too.
Beginning the recital with three pieces from Pletnev’s masterly transcriptions from Tchaikowsky Ballets , that had brought him victory in the Tchaikovsky Competition in Moscow in 1978 at the age if 21.The two opening pieces from Sleeping Beauty were played with a kaleidoscope of characterisation.From the impish delight and pianistic hi-jinx of ‘The Dance of the Pages’ to the ravishing beauty of the ‘Adagio’. Freedom and sumptuous beauty united as this young man could transform the piano into an orchestra of grandeur and create the exhilarating atmosphere of the theatre where Tchaikovsky is the undisputed master.The impish tip-toe of the ‘Sugar Plum Fairy’ from the ‘Nutcracker’ with the piccolo high in the piano that Nikita played with ice cool clockwork precision to ravishing effect. Nikita is not only a communicator in music but he has a charm and intelligence to inform with words with precious information about the composers and pieces he was about to play. Red socks and matching red handkerchief just add to an artist who can charm and seduce his audience like a dashing Russian Prince on horseback.
