Kirill Gerstein himself has pointed out the great influence his love of jazz has on his classical piano playing: “My experience with improvisation and timing in jazz influences the way I play classical music in a certain way,” he said in an interview with the in-house media of the Berlin Philharmonic.

In Essen, Kirill Gerstein will juxtapose compositions by Claude Debussy with works by the Armenian composer Komitas. A special highlight of the evening will be an introductory artist talk. Anyone who has ever heard Kirill Gerstein speak about music with his insightful and passionate approach will attest to what an inspiring storyteller he is.

Photo: Marco Borggreve