An internationally acclaimed Russian pianist is set to visit Shetland in early October as part of Shetland Arts Trust ongoing classical music programme.

Evgeny Soifertis was born in Kiev where, following his music studies, he won first prize in the nations ‘Beethoven Competition’ at the age of 18. This success immediately afforded him national and international status, and he went on to complete his studies at the famed Moscow Conservatory, before moving to Holland and finally to London, where he is now based.

Concerto appearances include performances with the Dutch Symphony Orchestra, the Bucharest Symphony Orchestra and the Ukrainian National Orchestra. He has made numerous television appearances, most recently as part of the BBC’s ‘Music Live’ Festival, and recorded many critically acclaimed CD’s. He is currently recording three piano concertos for the Hyperion label as part of the ‘Romantic Piano Concerto series due to be released early next year.

Shetland Arts Trust music development officer Davie Gardner, said “Purchasing the new Steinway piano has opened up all sorts of opportunities for us in this particular arena, including bringing pianists of the quality of Evgeny to the isles. Hopefully there will be many more to follow”.

Evgeny’s Lerwick programme will include Chopin – 24 preludes, Prokofiev’s Sonata No 6 and Liszt’s Spanish Rhapsody among other pieces.

The concert will take place in Lerwick Town Hall on Saturday 8th October at 7.30pm. Doors open at 7pm .Tickets priced £10 and £7 concession are available from Shetland Arts Trust in Pitt Lane, and go on sale from 9am on Friday 30th September. Telephone (01595) 694001 for further details.