John Wilson Piano Spectacular

Internationally renowned pianists, including esteemed RNCM alumni, unite on stage with no fewer than eight grand pianos in the Concert Hall to raise funds for the John Wilson Fellowship in Accompaniment.

This special evening features RNCM legend John Wilson alongside Harvey Davies, Peter Donohoe, Julian Evans, Peter Lawson, Nicholas Rimmer, Martin Roscoe, and Graham Scott, performing works by Ravel, Rachmaninov, Beethoven, Mussorgsky, and more, under the ensemble direction of Tim Reynish. Improvisation superstar Harry Harris also joins the line-up, with the evening hosted by former Classic FM presenter Nick Bailey.

A valued member of the RNCM community for over 60 years, John Wilson began his journey as a student at the Northern School of Music before becoming a key staff member at the RNCM. This year’s Piano Spectacular not only celebrates John’s 85th birthday but also marks a fundraising milestone, aiming to raise £20,000 to support talented pianists in mastering the art of accompaniment.

Previous Junior Fellows, including Malcolm Forbes-Peckham, Elena Hale, Martin Klett, Elin Rees, Emily Hooker, Philip Sharp, and Andrew Dunlop, exemplify the legacy of this important programme.

Following successful events in 2005, 2010, 2015, and 2020, this year’s celebration promises to be a highlight in the RNCM calendar.