The Georgian pianist Nino Kupreishvili enchanted her audience in Rougemont’s historic church with a deeply moving performance for the Gstaad New Year Music Festival—an homage to the courageous pianist Pavel Kuschnir.

On Wednesday evening, 8 January, the historic church in Rougemont became the setting for a magical moment. As Nino Kupreishvili struck the first notes of her program, time seemed to stand still. Simultaneously powerful and delicate, her playing transformed the space into a kaleidoscope of colours and emotions. From the very beginning, it was clear that an exceptional artist was at work. The administrative director, Çetin Köksal, introduced her with these words: “I haven’t known Nino for very long, but she amazed me from the very first moment. She’s an extraordinary talent.”

Kupreishvili’s repertoire included pieces by Beethoven, Chopin, and Tchaikovsky—three giants of piano literature whose works span the entire spectrum of human emotion. But it was not just the selection of pieces that captivated the audience; it was how she brought them to life.

Playing Like a Sea of Colours
Kupreishvili’s piano playing had a painterly quality. With each note, she created soundscapes that ranged from soft pastels to vibrant purples. Her fingers didn’t just touch the keys; they told stories flowing straight from her soul. “When I play, it’s pure joy for my soul, and I hope the audience feels it too,” the 31-year-old pianist shared after her performance. Particularly during Chopin’s “Nocturnes,” a melancholic warmth enveloped the audience. When it came to Tchaikovsky, the notes—clear, precise, and full of warmth—lit up the room. It was as if she were creating a world where sound and colour blended seamlessly, blurring the boundaries between reality and fantasy.

The Power of Remembrance
The concert was more than a musical performance; it was an emotional statement. The homage to the late pianist Pavel Kuschnir added profound depth to the evening. “I wanted to honour Pavel and play pieces he would have loved because he was brave,” Kupreishvili explained after the concert. Kuschnir, who died in prison in 2024 after publicly criticising the war in Ukraine, remains a symbol of resilience for many. Kupreishvili’s playing carried this spirit—delicate and vulnerable, yet powerful.

An Audience Spellbound by Music
The audience’s response was overwhelming. Thunderous applause filled the church after each piece, culminating in prolonged standing ovations at the end. Kupreishvili, a mother of a young daughter, emphasised how important it is for her to pass on her passion for music. “It’s a dream to play the piano in a place like this,” she said, visibly moved by the audience’s enthusiasm.

Based on reporting by AvS | EOP