Benjamin Grosvenor

February 2, City Hall Theatre

When 15-year-old British classical pianist Benjamin Grosvenor makes his Bermuda Festival debut tomorrow night, it will be before a sold-out house, and preceded by an impressive reputation as a child prodigy.

Born in 1992 and the youngest of five brothers, Benjamin began studying piano with his mother at age six, and his accomplishments in the interim speak volumes for his remarkable talent.

At age eight he won all of his classes at local festivals, and by age ten he had swept aside the competition to win no less than three awards: the Southend Young Musician of the Year award, of which he was the youngest-ever winner; the Emanuel Trophy (a national competiton for winners of senior classes at local festivals), and the European Piano Teachers' Association trophy.

As well as Benjamin's regular academic studies (he passed his GCSE in math in primary school), the Royal Academy of Music has awarded special affiliated scholarship status to him — something very rarely awarded to a student of his age.

The young Briton gave his first recital in 2003, and his first concerto appearance with the Westcliff High School Orchestra the same year. Subsequent invitations led to performances with renowned orchestras and ensembles in New York's Carnegie Hall, Rio de Janeiro and various locations throughout England, including London's Wigmore Hall, the Barbican, and major cities in Scotland.

Benjamin's playing has been described as revealing a natural flair, amazingly subtle shading and dynamic control, as well as prodigious technique, and carefully thought-out detail.

He recently signed a development agreement with record label EMI by way of preparing for future recordings.

The concert is at City Hall theatre, beginning at 8 p.m., and his programme will include works by Scarlatti, Albeniz, Moszkowski, and Chopin. For further information visit website www.bermudafestival.org or contact the Festival box office between 12 noon and 2 p.m. (tel. 296-5774).