ISTANBUL • 9–12 JULY 2026
THE LISZT FESTIVAL
Masterclasses • Workshops • Concerts • Career Coaching • Media Training
The Franz Liszt International Piano Festival in Istanbul
offers a rare opportunity for pianists, educators,
and devoted listeners to immerse themselves in the music,
artistry, and legacy of Franz Liszt.
Guided by distinguished pianists - Leslie Howard,
Grigory Gruzman, Mariam Batsashvili and
Andrea Bonatta - the festival combines recitals,
intensive masterclasses, lectures,
workshops and career-development coaching.
Media training will be led by acclaimed
music journalist, musician, and editor at
Pianist Magazine & Piano Street - Patrick Jovell.
Masterclasses
Mariam Batsashvili
Leslie Howard
Grigory Gruzman
Andrea Bonatta
The winner of the Liszt Competitons in Utrecht and Weimar, a Warner Classics artist and a former BBC New Generation Artist. She is acclaimed for her exceptional musical depth, sensitive interpretations and dazzling virtuosity. Her innovative under-one-minute piano tutorials are hugely appreciated across social media platforms.
A musicologist, composer, conductor, uniquely recognised as the only pianist to have recorded the complete piano works of Franz Liszt. This monumental accomplishment secured him a place in The Guiness Book of Records as the solo artist behind the largest recording project ever undertaken. He is celebrated worldwide as a leading authority on Liszt.
A pianist and distinguished Professor of Piano at the University of Music Franz Liszt Weimar and Chairman of the International Franz Liszt Competition for Young Pianists. He is widely respected for developing artistry and refining technical mastery in young pianists.
One of the most outstanding Italian pianists and a successful conductor. He is a founder and director of the Piano Academy - Eppan and serves as a jury member in many prestigious International Competitions. He has recorded CDs of Liszt’s music, receiving top critical reviews. He is an artistic advisor of the Liszt Competition in Utrecht.
Patrick Jovell
Advisory & Editorial
A distinguished Swedish pianist, pedagogue, and journalist, Patrick Jovell is a key contributor to Piano Street, the leading online platform for classical piano. He has notably served as editor for 'The World of Piano Competitions' launched by PIANIST Magazine and has authored numerous articles on piano performance, digitalisation in music education, and international piano competitions.
Tutu Aydinoğlu
GUEST PIANIST
Tutu Aydinoğlu is an academician and pianist at the Istanbul University State Conservatory. She has performed as a soloist for the Turkish premier of Respighi's Concerto at Istanbul ICEC. She stands out with her unique interpretations and instincts to discover the neglected and new. She is a founding member and Vice President of the European Piano Teachers Association in Türkiye.
PARTICIPATE IN The Liszt Festival in Istanbul
Applications are now open for the festival, with two meaningful ways to participate.
ACTIVE PARTICIPANTS (16 places available):
Will be selected through a brief screening process to ensure an appropriate artistic level for the limited masterclass places; those accepted will receive:
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Daily Masterclass
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Individual performance coaching
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Individual Media & Career Development Coaching
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Performance Opportunity in Closing Concert
PASSIVE PARTICIPANTS:
Will enjoy full access to recitals, masterclasses, lectures, workshops, and professional discussions - an equally valuable opportunity for musical enrichment, networking, and deep immersion in the artistry and legacy of Franz Liszt without the pressure of formal performance.
A ROMANTIC LEGACY
July 9-12, 2026 • Istanbul
The Romantic Legacy at the heart of this festival celebrates the visionary artistry of Franz Liszt - a musician who reshaped pianistic expression, performance culture, and musical imagination. This gathering offers a rare chance to engage directly with that tradition through performance and artistic exchange in an inspiring international environment. If you are considering participation, now is the ideal moment to join a community committed to excellence, curiosity, and the living continuation of Liszt’s extraordinary musical heritage.
CURRICULUM
Masterclasses
Workshops
Concerts
Coaching
Media Training
Daily masterclasses comprising high-level technical and artistic refinement with our world-renowned pianists.
Dedicated daily sessions exploring Liszt's compositional innovation and unique performance practices.
Prestigious evening recitals on 9th July and 12th July showcasing Romantic masterpieces in Istanbul's most iconic venue.
Strategic career guidance and professional coaching for emerging pianists.
Cultivating a global public image through expert training in media relations, digital presence, and storytelling.
Dedication to
Natalia Natsvlishvili
The inaugural 2026 Liszt Festival in Istanbul is dedicated to the memory of Natalia Natsvlishvili. A distinguished pedagogue whose artistic integrity, devotion to Liszt's repertoire and influence on her students continues to resonate internationally.
THE VENUE
The Franz Liszt Festival Istanbul 2026 unfolds within the historic walls of the Süreyya Opera House and the Pera Music School. Located in the heart of Istanbul's Beşiktaş district, these iconic landmarks provide an intimate and resonant setting for our masterclasses and evening concerts.