Who or what inspired you to take up the piano and pursue a career in music?
I started to play piano spontaneously. My neighbors took me to the music school. It was when I played for the first time at Moscow Conservatory Hall at age 15 that I decided to pursue a career as a concert pianist.
Who or what were the most important influences on your musical life and career?
My teacher Pavel Messner and a very close friend Nataliya Shahovskaya, who was one of the best cellists and teachers in Moscow Conservatory.
What have been the greatest challenges of your career so far?
Performing consistently
Which performance/recordings are you most proud of?
My concerts at Carnegie Hall every year are the concerts I am most proud of.
Which particular works do you think you perform best?
I love to perform Schubert, Chopin, and Satie.
How do you make your repertoire choices from season to season?
I like to learn and record new repertoire every year. It comes spontaneously to me. Last year I recorded French repertoire, this year I would like to record a new CD of Russian music.
Do you have a favourite concert venue to perform in and why?
My favorite concert venue is Carnegie Hall, Stern Auditorium. It’s simply the best!
Who are your favourite musicians?
Vladimir Horowitz, Artur Rubenstein
What is your most memorable concert experience?
Vladimir Horowitz concert in Moscow, I was sitting in the 4th row!
What do you consider to be the most important ideas and concepts to impart to aspiring musicians?
To have passion for what you do.
Where would you like to be in 10 years’ time?
I would like to continue to perform all over the world.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
Being in the flow and being inspired..
What is your most treasured possession?
My Steinway grand piano
What is your present state of mind?
Peaceful
Born in Moscow, Ms. Grineva began studying piano at the age of six, attending the Moscow Music School. She went on to the Moscow High School of Music under the aegis of the prestigious Moscow Conservatory, where she studied with Professor Pavel Messner. It was during her tutelage with Maestro Messner that Katya began giving recitals and experiencing the “special and spontaneous” interaction between artist and audience that would become the hallmark of her performances.
(Photo: Jennifer Taylor)
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