…performance styles involving intense focus and minimal outward display, attributes that are alas in short supply in these days of musical exhibitionism….

Young pianists are judged by leading performers from around the world, including Konstantin Shamray

“All the virtuoso passages were delivered with complete assurance, accuracy, and effortless strength. “

“However it was 2008 Sydney International Piano Competition winner Konstantin Shamray who was the stand out. Within the central recital, he was heard as soloist and accompanist”

“Konstantin Shamray was the star of the second concert”

“Lark giving us charged opening gestures and plenty of folky lilt in the first movement, Shamray an ardent duo partner. “

“The second movement had the pianist in a glorious zone – languid, lyrical, lovely – before he once again broke out his virtuosic ease in the firecracker ending.”

“Konstantin Shamray is a pianist of great intelligence matched by tremendous power. He is more than a match for the full orchestra when he chooses to unleash that power.”

“Quite simply, it was a stunning display of musicianship and passion. “

“Following a standing ovation, Mr Shamray treated us to, in his own words, ‘Bach: the perfect encore with which to end’, an excerpt from the Goldberg Variations. Sublime. “

“The Russian pianist and winner of the 2008 Sydney International Piano Competition talks Tchaikovsky ahead of his Australian tour.”

“Shamray had the full measure of this piece, his technique completely equal to the challenges of strength, agility, and projection, and also with a delicate poetry in the softer passages. He has a commanding, easy stage presence that inspires confidence.”

“There was much beauty in this performance, but there was also tremendous power and robust strength.”

“It would be no exaggeration to say that this young Russian-born pianist is already a front-ranking virtuoso.”