A Musical Friendship

Music full of expressiveness and spirituality. The Ukrainian-Dutch composer Maxim Shalygin, who lives in The Hague, is making waves with his remarkable work. The pianist and multiple competition winner Antonii Baryshevskyi performs a recital of Shalygin's complete piano works. The concert will also see the launch of a new double CD of these piano works.

Shalygin’s music has been featured prominently at Amsterdam's Muziekgebouw in recent seasons, including during the celebrated Minimal Music Festival. But Shalygin says of his music: "Call me a maximalist instead. I'm always looking for maximum possibilities. I push boundaries and try to transcend them. I challenge gravity and want to lift people up. Yes, make them fly a bit. That's what music can do.” For his solo works, he always looks for a musician with a capital M: "someone who possesses unique technical skills, has a broad emotional palette, works with an unwavering ethos and eagerly embraces challenges.”

He found his ideal pianist in Antonii Baryshevskyi. Their collaboration began at the Kyiv Conservatory fifteen years ago and evolved into a deep friendship. When the war forced Baryshevskyi to leave the Ukraine, Shalygin helped him establish himself in Dutch musical life. During this difficult time, they grew even closer and a new series of piano works was created.

Antonii Baryshevskyi is a passionate advocate of new music. “Every classic was once new music,” says the pianist. “As a performer, I want to bring today's fascinating compositions to life. Concertgoers appreciate adventurous programmes.” A vision that fits perfectly with Classical NOW!’s artistic goals.