Categorie: Ilona Timchenko News

Recording Highlights: Leman and Gubaidulina in Enschede

Ilona recorded a new album at the Wilmink Theatre in Enschede,  works by Albert Leman and Sofia Gubaidulina. The sound engineer was Andrea Friggi. The combination of such powerful repertoire, a world-class acoustic, and the support of fantastic professionals made this session a true artistic privilege. Ilona is deeply grateful for the experience.

At the same time, Ilona is looking forward to the progress of another recent project: in June, she recorded with Utrecht String Quartet for MDG Records. The first edit is now on the table and we are excited to see this collaboration take its next steps.

Two very different projects, united by music that continues to inspire and shape her path as an artist.

A Musical Dialogue Across Centuries

Ilona Timchenko was invited by Nieuw Podium Klassiek Almere at the beautiful Bonifatius Church. This initiative is dedicated to bringing high-level piano artistry to a special acoustic space, combining concerts with encounters that create dialogue between artists, young musicians, and the audience.

Over two days, she shared both sides of her musical life: as a performer and as a mentor. On 27 September, she lead a masterclass for young pianists, opening a space for exploration, inspiration, and exchange. On 28 September, Ilona gave a recital titled From Mozart to Gubaidulina — a programme that traces a fascinating journey across centuries, from Mozart’s luminous clarity to Gubaidulina’s profound spiritual sound world.

On 26 September, she performed a Herdenkingsconcert in Bergen (NL) in memory of Ton Dissen — a remarkable person who died on 4th August. He was a great admirer of art and music.

The proceeds from this memorial concert will be donated to a new music school in Bergen. This centre, which receives no municipal subsidies, is dedicated to mentoring young musical talent — something Ilona is sure Ton would have greatly appreciated.

This summer began with an inspiring recording project: in early June, I had the pleasure of collaborating with the Utrecht String Quartet for a new release with MDG Records, featuring Frank Martin’s remarkable Piano Quintet. A rewarding artistic experience that set the tone for a season full of music.

In July, I returned to the Aurora Festival in the Netherlands, performing chamber works by Gedalge, Ustvolskaya, Gubaidulina, and Lyatoshynsky. The closing concert was held at the emblematic Concertboerderij in Valthermond, a special venue created by my mentor Rian de Waal — a place that always feels like home.

Back in Spain, Peregrinos Musicales presented the concert series Rutas del Alma as part of the official Fiestas de Apóstol in Santiago de Compostela. As both performer and artistic director, I was thrilled to take part in this celebration of music. One highlight was the Luz de Viena evening, dedicated to Mozart and Haydn — always a joy to interpret, especially with my own cadenza for the Mozart concerto. We closed the week with Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue, in its vibrant two-piano version performed with Michael Dorner.

Grateful for the enriching collaborations, dedicated colleagues, and welcoming audiences that made this summer so memorable. Looking forward to the musical journeys ahead!