The Pianist Podcast

In this podcast, Alexandra Dariescu speaks to Pianist editor Erica Worth about her upcoming debut at the BBC Proms on 5 August. She also talks about her childhood in Romania, championing the piano music by women composers, and why we should always begin our practice sessions of a piece with the most difficult part first!

In this podcast, Katia and Marielle Labèque talk to Pianist editor Erica Worth about their new 3-CD project, 55, out on Deutsche Grammophon in June 2026, which celebrates 55 years of making recordings. They also discuss their upcoming worldwide tour performing pieces from the 55 album and reflect on their long musical partnership – including the challenges of playing as a duo – as well as offering advice to amateur pianists on how to use imagination and be courageous.

In this podcast, composer Will Bates speaks to Pianist editor Erica Worth about his score for the film Tuner. He also talks about working with actors Dustin Hoffman and Leo Woodall, how he developed a unique sound using mallet-triggered MIDI devices attached to a ‘lobotomized’ piano, and why it’s important to understand the power of silence in film scoring.

In this podcast, Sir Stephen Hough talks to Pianist editor Erica Worth about his new release, Piano Postcards, out on the Hyperion label in July 2026. He also talks about a deep passion for the music of Chopin, managing a busy concert schedule, and why it’s so important for all pianists to write their fingerings onto the score.

In this podcast, Mark Viner talks to Pianist editor Erica Worth about his continued commitment to recording the complete piano music of Charles-Valentin Alkan. He also talks about the pros of being a later starter at the piano, the importance of teaching, and why an appreciation of harmony is essential for all pianists.