Friends of Music starts off its 2002 recital programme on February 19 with a performance by pianist Sergei Babayan who will play works by Bach and Rachmaninov. Considered one of the most charismatic personalities on today’s concert stage, his vibrantly expressive performances have inspired audience acclaim worldwide. He is also the founder and director of the Sergei Babayan International Piano Academy which was established at The Cleveland Institute of Music in 1995.

Born in Armenia to a musical family, he started to play the piano at the age of three. He studied at the Moscow Conservatory as well as privately with Lev Naumov. On his first trip outside of the Soviet Union to the United States in 1989, his virtuosity and wide-ranging tonal palette attracted critical praise and accolades.

He made his New York recital debut in 1990 at Alice Tully Hall and has gone on to win numerous competitions. He has performed widely in England, Europe and America and his CD recording of 20th century works by Vine, Messiaen, Ligeti and Respighi is released on the ProPiano label.

The Prelude Performer for the evening will be Thabi Ngema (16), a pupil at St Mary's DSG in Kloof. She is a young soprano with much potential and her 10 minute performance prior to the guest artist of the evening is bound to include some of her favourite numbers from Porgy and Bess.

The concert will take place at the Durban Jewish Club which has safe parking and a cash bar is available. Tickets R40 (R35 FOM members). Book at Computicket. Annual subscription fee of R25 offers a reduction in ticket prices. Post to Friends of Music, PO Box 51063, Musgrave, 4062.