Culture
Mini melodies! Maltese pianist to perform local compositions on a toy piano at Malta Society of Arts concert
A piano concerto with a twist!

Francesca Vella

Tricia Dawn Williams, a Maltese pianist of Irish and Welsh descent, will perform at ‘Eclats de musique’ on Saturday 19th October at 8pm at the Malta Society of Arts Concert Hall in Valletta. The concert offers a rich exploration of contemporary piano music, featuring a combination of French and Maltese compositions.

Adding a unique twist, Williams will perform not only on a traditional piano but also on a toy piano – a personal passion of hers. She owns nine toy pianos, including four vintage models, and is endorsed by Schoenhut, the world's oldest and largest toy piano manufacturer. Williams has collaborated with composers from around the globe and recorded numerous works for the toy piano. Her performances have been showcased online for events like Classical Next in Germany, Porto Pianofest in Portugal, and the Three Palaces Festival in Malta.

Beyond her toy piano innovation, Williams is known for creating immersive performances that integrate video art, electronic music, and extended piano techniques. She is also a pioneer in using motion-capture technology, controlling electronic sounds with Myo armbands during her performances. Over the years, she has commissioned, premiered, and recorded works by composers from various countries and backgrounds.

The concert programme includes Erik Satie’s surrealist ballet score Parade, arranged by Ruben Zahra for piano and toy piano, as well as Zahra’s original composition ‘Pan the Goat-God’. Local composer Veronique Vella will also be featured with her piece ‘W.A.R. - When Angels Rest’.

Entry to this unique concert is free, but reservations are required – visit Tricia Dawn Williams’s website to book your place!

Have you ever heard someone play a toy piano before?

9th October 2024


Francesca Vella
Written by
Francesca Vella
Francesca has always felt most at home in a cinema or theatre, particularly if musicals are involved. She loves to read, write, and share about her experiences of both the fictional and the real world.

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