Schubert: Wanderer

Bertrand Chamayou, described by Gramophone as a "young French pianist of an impeccable pedigree," is already firmly established as one of the most thoughtful and fascinating pianists of his generation. Born in Toulouse, and a graduate of the Paris Conservatoire, Chamayou had ambitions to be a composer before the piano became his musical priority. His questing and creative spirit is reflected in a diverse and eclectic repertoire that defies simple categorization. It is not surprising that he drew the attention of Pierre Boulez, a similarly unclassifiable musician, who has conducted Chamayou in concerto performances on a number of occasions.

Gramophone has praised the way Chamayou "harnesses power and depth alongside his sparkling virtuosity," and noted his "textual clarity, warm and affectionate expression and luminous piano tone." France's leading music awards, Les Victoires de la Musique, have traced the trajectory of Chamayou's career: in 2006 he was named as the year's "Révélation" (outstanding young talent), while 2011 brought him the prize for Solo Instrumentalist and 2012 for Best Recording. Chamayou has collaborated with celebrated conductors, including Semyon Bychkov, Andris Nelsons, Leonard Slatkin, Neville Marriner, Michel Plasson, Stéphane Denève, and Jérémie Rhorer.