Festival KLAVER 2026

KLAVER Festival
13–17 October 2026 Estonia Concert Hall & Concert Hall of the Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre

Artistic Director Sten Heinoja

The KLAVER Festival returns to the Estonia Concert Hall in October 2026, themed around VITAL PIANO. Established in 1998, the event celebrates its 15th anniversary this year.

The concept behind this edition is to demonstrate that piano music remains vibrant and relevant within a rapidly evolving world. Over centuries, the repertoire has captured the full spectrum of human emotion—feelings that resonate just as deeply today. To reflect this continuity, the programme features performers from across the generations, ranging from emerging students to established masters. The festival offers an opportunity to experience the instrument's enduring energy through diverse artistic perspectives.

This year’s primary guest is Sir András Schiff. With a career spanning over five decades, he is a significant figure in the piano world, known for his meticulously curated programmes and commanding performances. The festival also welcomes the Estonian Festival Orchestra with Ukrainian pianist Vadym Kholodenko, led by conductor Paavo Järvi.

The programme includes a performance by the Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, featuring Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 5. The soloist is young British pianist Martin James Bartlett, conducted by Jessica Cottis. Bartlett rose to prominence after winning the BBC Young Musician competition in 2014 at the age of 17, quickly establishing himself within the UK music scene.

Ukrainian pianist Vadym Kholodenko, winner of the 14th Van Cliburn Competition, presents a solo recital. Renowned for his nuanced touch and refined sound, his programme includes Franz Liszt’s concert études and a piano transcription of Hector Berlioz’s Symphonie fantastique.

The festival concludes with a Gala of Young Estonian Pianists. As 2026 marks the 140th anniversary of Franz Liszt’s passing, eleven local musicians pay tribute by performing his twelve Transcendental Études. These demanding works represent a significant milestone for any developing artist. The gala serves as a platform for home-grown talent to showcase their skills as they transition toward their future careers.

— Sten Heinoja