Swiss pianist Louis Schwizgebel Photo: Maggie Tweedie
Louis Schwizgebel is dazzling enough at the keyboard, but when the pianist isn't tinkling the ivories he's often performing magic tricks.
Schwizgebel, is in Aotearoa to perform Saint-Saëns's Piano Concerto No. 2 with the Auckland Philharmonia and conductor Samy Rachid.
However, he's a pretty handy magician, as this video shows.
Schwizgebel, who speaks French as his first language owing to his upbringing in Geneva, describes his hometown with a touch of nostalgia. “Geneva is like a little Paris,” he muses, “although people there don’t always appreciate that comparison.”
Schwizgebel’s visit to RNZ Concert in Auckland follows an afternoon rehearsal with the Orchestra. He joins us from his studio to discuss his musical journey and upcoming engagements. Having lived in London for the past decade, Schwizgebel reflects on his time in the city with fondness. “I studied there for a year, and I really like the city. It’s also very convenient for travel. I decided to stay because it felt like a good place to live.”
Has he ever mixed music and magic live? Once for a private event but he is not so sure he will try it again.
Schwizgebel’s professional journey is deeply intertwined with his family life. His Chinese mother is a calligrapher, his Swiss father an animator. He continues to collaborate with his father, who is celebrating his 80th birthday in two weeks. “We have this ongoing project that has evolved significantly in recent times,” Schwizgebel shares.
After his New Zealand performance, he will travel to Hong Kong and Dublin for forthcoming concerts. When asked about his musical influences, Schwizgebel reveals a profound admiration for Franz Schubert. “He has moved me the most. His ability to transition from sadness to happiness in such subtle ways is something that deeply resonates with me.”
For those eager to experience Schwizgebel’s performance, he will be featured in a live broadcast of Music Alive on RNZ Concert Thursday, September 12, at 7:30 pm.
The much-anticipated concert, titled Joie de Vivre, will take place at the Great Hall, Auckland Town Hall, from 7:30 pm.
