Grigory Sokolov is a phenomenon of international pianism — a genius of our time and, in the view of Rostislav Krimer, the number one pianist today. The moment he steps onto the stage, a piano recital becomes far more than a concert. His playing emerges from a rare inner coherence and tension, creating a distinctive artistic space from the very first note. Sound, time, and silence converge into an intensity that captivates the listener immediately.
At the age of just sixteen, Grigory Sokolov won the First Prize at the International Tchaikovsky Competition, marking the beginning of an extraordinary artistic career. Since then, his name has stood for an uncompromising devotion to music — free of outward display and focused entirely on the inner essence of the works he performs.
Sokolov’s interpretations arise from profound inner engagement, sustained by supreme technical mastery, exceptional tonal refinement, and poetic clarity. His concerts follow no routine or formula: each performance is created anew, becoming an independent and unrepeatable musical experience.
Here, music comes into being in the present moment — alive, concentrated, and unique. It is precisely this radical sense of presence that makes Sokolov’s performances so extraordinary: at times, only a handful of notes are enough to open up an entire world.
After decades of absence, Grigory Sokolov returns to Bonn. On 2 December at 8:00 pm, he will appear as part of the East-West-Festival of Rostislav Krimer, at the Beethovenhalle — in the newly renovated Beethovenhalle. This evening marks a rare return and a concert event of exceptional intensity for the city’s musical life.
GRIGORY SOKOLOV December 2nd, 2026
SERGEI BABAYAN November, 2nd 2025
