Stephen de Pledge

New Zealand pianist Stephen De Pledge is one of the most exciting and versatile musicians of his generation. He studied with Joan Havill at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London. His career was launched after winning the Gold Medal from the Guildhall, and the NFMS Young Concert Artists’ Award, and he has since maintained a diverse and wide-ranging performing schedule, as soloist, chamber musician and song accompanist. Stephen’s solo performances have taken him throughout the UK, including five solo recitals in the Wigmore Hall in London, where he made his acclaimed début in 1999. He has also given solo performances in Hong Kong, Italy, France, Singapore, Japan, Australia and the USA. Concerto appearances include the Philharmonia, Bournemouth Symphony and New Zealand Symphony Orchestras, and he has recorded solo works of Bliss, Arvo Pärt, and Górecki.

Stephen’s repertoire is far-reaching, from the music of the 17th to the 21st centuries. He has always been an advocate for contemporary music, and has given the world première performances of many works. He has become particularly associated with the music of Messiaen, which he studied in Paris with the composer’s widow, Yvonne Loriod.

Stephen has broadcast for Radio 3 and Classic FM in the UK, and also on radio in USA, Australia, New Zealand and Sweden, and for BBC Television.