Piano pleasure

THE Sussex International Piano Competition took place in Worthing last week. Twenty-four, mostly young, people were short-listed for the quarter finals on Tuesday and Wednesday, six progressing to the semi-finals on Friday , and then three were selected for the Sunday afternoon final performances.
By The Newsroom
Published 22nd Apr 2013, 13:00 BST

These gifted, talented pianists were hosted by local families. The requirements were accommodation, within ferrying distance of Worthing, a good piano, not digital, recently tuned or the practice availability of a friendly neighbour’s instrument.

I was overjoyed to be able to provide these things and hosted a young woman from Ukraine. The week was filled with hours of wonderful music, during her practice times and her performances.

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There is no certainty of reaching the next stage – living the stresses and anticipation with the contestant were part of the excitement! Meals became an irregular feature. Most of the guests needed feeding at times for their comfort, depending on their time of performance. A fridge with flexible contents was essential.

Evening welcome parties, farewell gatherings for eliminated contestants and performance timetables made the week a challenge, but wonderful.

My guest reached the finals. She and I have built a beautiful friendship, which I am sure will last for years. She came third and won the Audience Prize.

The next similar competition is in April, 2015. I thoroughly recommend you to join in this superb musical opportunity.

Diana Twitchen

Meadow Park

East Preston

Related topics:WorthingUkraine