Katya Apekisheva: A natural pianist from the start

Katya Apekisheva has earnt her place as one of Europe’s most renowned pianists. Grammophone Magazine described her as a “profoundly gifted artist”. She’s performed across the world in auspicious venues including London’s Wigmore Hall, and appears on multiple albums. This week, her latest album with fellow pianist Charles Owen is released on the Orchid Classics label, featuring the music of Poulenc, Debussy and Milhaud. 

Katya talks about her upbringing and tuition at the tail end of the Soviet system, her collaborations with Charles and other musicians, plus introduces a diverse selection of works that have shaped her musical inspiration and career development.

This interview was recorded at the Australian Festival of Chamber Music in Townsville earlier this year. Festival director Jack Liebeck curated a delightful schedule of concerts, talks and other events for his second year as artistic director, bringing artists together from around Australia and all over the world. The next AFCM takes place from 26 July to 4 August 2024.