Cecile Licad

Instrumentalist – Piano

Cecile Licad, an internationally acclaimed pianist, captivates audiences with her daring musical instinct and exceptional training. Hailed as “a pianist’s pianist” by The New Yorker, Licad’s artistry encompasses a wide range of musical styles and influences. Let us delve into her remarkable journey through the world of classical music.

Training and Influences:

Licad’s natural talent was nurtured at the renowned Curtis Institute of Music, where she studied under the guidance of three legendary performer/pedagogues: Rudolf Serkin, Seymour Lipkin, and Mieczyslaw Horszowski. Their mentorship shaped her artistic development, honing her skills and expanding her musical horizons.

A Diverse Repertoire:

Licad’s repertoire as an orchestral soloist is vast and encompasses the works of classical masters such as Mozart and Beethoven, the rich Romantic literature of Brahms, Chopin, Tchaikovsky, Schumann, and Rachmaninoff, as well as 20th-century compositions by Debussy, Ravel, Shostakovich, Prokofiev, and Bartok. Her ability to interpret and breathe life into each musical era sets her apart as a truly versatile artist.

Notable Performances and Collaborations:

Licad’s illustrious career has seen her grace stages around the world. In recent seasons, she has performed with esteemed orchestras including the Chicago Symphony, Boston Symphony, Philadelphia Orchestra, New York Philharmonic, National Symphony, and Los Angeles Philharmonic, among others. Collaborations with renowned conductors such as Claudio Abbado, Kurt Masur, Zubin Mehta, and Seiji Ozawa have further enhanced her musical journey.

Chamber Music and Festival Appearances:

Licad’s passion for chamber music has led to collaborations with esteemed ensembles such as the New York Chamber Symphony, St. Paul Chamber Orchestra, Guarneri Quartet, Takacs Quartet, Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, and Music from Marlboro. She has also graced prestigious summer festivals including Caramoor, Tanglewood, Mostly Mozart Festival, Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival, and Great Mountains Music Festival.

Critically Acclaimed Recordings and Media Recognition:

Licad’s discography showcases her exceptional artistry. Her recordings on labels such as Music Masters, Naxos, and Sony Classical have received widespread acclaim. Notably, her rendition of Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2, accompanied by the Chicago Symphony and conducted by Claudio Abbado, was met with great acclaim.

Licad’s performances have garnered praise from critics worldwide. Media outlets have hailed her as a virtuoso and praised her interpretive depth, captivating stage presence, and impeccable technique.

Conclusion:

Cecile Licad’s journey as a pianist is an extraordinary testament to her exceptional talent and unwavering dedication to her craft. With a diverse repertoire, memorable performances, and accolades from critics, she continues to inspire audiences with her musical brilliance. Licad’s profound interpretations and artistry ensure her enduring legacy in the realm of classical music.