Who or what inspired you to pursue a career in music and who or what have been the most important influences on your musical life and career?
I never imagined being able to have a career in music although I felt I wanted a life in music. I think it was music itself which truly inspired me, although, needless to say, there have been many wonderful musicians who have made a profound impression on me and fuelled that inspiration.
What have been the greatest challenges of your career so far?
I think the constant challenge is trying to grow and develop and not get trapped by relying on habitual responses to music. The challenge to continually encounter music afresh is both demanding and hugely inspiring.
Which performances/recordings are you most proud of?
My favourite performances and recordings are all by other people!
How do you make your repertoire choices from season to season?
My repertoire choices are underpinned by an instinct that I would like to learn or revisit a particular work. Sometimes an invitation or circumstance will trigger a choice I might not have previously made – the most recent case for me was that the time afforded by the Covid lockdown inspired me to prepare a complete cycle of the Beethoven sonatas, which I performed in 2023.
What do you do off stage that provides inspiration on stage?
I personally find that being aware of what enhances the communicative impact of performance when I am listening to the concerts of other musicians helps me to focus on this priority on stage.
What is your most memorable concert experience?
About ten years ago I played the five Beethoven concertos in one evening in Germany and that was certainly a unique experience!
As a musician, what is your definition of success?
To remain inspired by the miracle of music.
What advice would you give to young or aspiring musicians?
To cultivate and deepen the awareness of music’s relationship to the other arts, nature and every aspect of life. This is vital for the continuous revitalisation of inspiration necessary to sustain a life in music.
Tell us what audiences can look forward to at your upcoming performance at the London Piano Festival.
The Gala Concert, which I will take part in, has a wonderfully varied programme which makes it the epitome of a concert with something for everyone!
What is your present state of mind?
Immense gratitude.
Ronan O’Hora performs Britten, Brahms, Smetana and Ravel in the Two-Piano Gala at the 10th anniversary edition of the London Piano Festival, running from 9-12 October at Kings Place.
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