We are extremely sad about the news of Nelson Freire’s passing. Nelson Freire spent much time preparing the 15th Géza Anda Piano Competition with us. Moreover, he agreed to chair the jury and was hoping to do so until very shortly before the competition began on 26th May. Many of our competitors admired him deeply. For us, Nelson Freire was not only a wonderful musician but also a great friend.

Characterised by David Allen in the New York Times on 4th November 2021 as «a reclusive pianist whose fabled technique and sensitive, subtle musicianship made him a legend among pianophiles», Nelson Freire was a wonderful artist «who won the admiration, if not adoration of many classical music listeners for the understated sensitivity that he brought to the works of composers from Bach to Rachmaninoff, and especially Chopin.» (Emily Langer in the Washington Post, 4th November 2021).

Nelson Freire will forever remain alive in our hearts.