Denis Matsuev celebrated his 50th birthday with a unique jazz and classical concert

The anniversary concert of the People's Artist of Russia Denis Matsuev was held in the Moscow Tchaikovsky Hall. The maestro celebrated his 50th birthday at the piano, bringing together representatives of the classical and jazz scene, as well as fans from all over the country and abroad. This was reported on June 12 by a correspondent of Izvestia.

The program began with Tchaikovsky's First Concert — it was in this performance that the work was performed at the Olympics instead of the anthem. Gradually, academicism gave way to improvisation: drums, saxophone and double bass appeared on stage, and the evening turned into symphonic jazz.

Matsuev performed jazz variations and pieces of his own composition. At the anniversary concert, he allowed himself to depart from the strictness of the repertoire, combining classics with humor and elements of the show.

He himself admitted that much of his musical development was connected with his father, who taught him the sound and traditions of the Russian piano school from his youth.

"It was like yesterday, because my dad and I were studying right up to the last moment, he taught me to sound, hopefully to the Russian piano school," Matsuev shared his memories.

Today Matsuev has become its symbol. His performances are not only technical skills, but also expression, live communication with the audience. He easily moves from classical to jazz, from serious works to musical humor, turning the concert into a real show. The anniversary evening was a confirmation of his unique stage image — a pianist who is not only listened to, but also watched. There was not only music in the hall, but also laughter — Matsuev knows how to turn any performance into a musical stand-up.

"If I'm sitting in the artists' room and I hear laughter in the hallway, it means Denis will appear now," said Yuri Bashmet, violist, artistic director and chief conductor of the Novaya Rossiya State Symphony Orchestra, People's Artist of the Russian Federation.

His playing and charisma are noted by both colleagues and fans. Music critics call his performances "electrifying," and Matsuev's energy and temperament, according to them, create the effect of total immersion.

"I was offered to play a concert at the North Pole"

Pianist Denis Matsuev — about creative adventures, Tchaikovsky's music instead of the anthem and his hologram on stage

On June 11, Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated People's Artist of the country, pianist Matsuev, on his 50th birthday. In his congratulatory message, the Russian leader noted his talent, outstanding achievements in the field of music, as well as his great contribution to the development of Russian culture.

On the same day, Matsuev said that he has 284 concerts planned for 2025. He also stressed that going on stage is a blessing for him. According to him, he may get tired from flights and jet lag, but not from going on stage.