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INFORMATION
Natjecanje - Glazbena škola Varaždin > INFORMATION > INFORMATION > Marco Ottaviani – Opening concert of the Competition
Marco Ottaviani – Opening concert of the Competition
- 6. April 2026.
- Posted by: Sanja
- Category: INFORMATION
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The opening concert on April 8, 2026, at 7:00 PM at the Music School in Varaždin will mark the beginning of the 7th International Piano Competition Memorial Jurica Murai & Murai Grand Prix 2026. The opening performance will feature the laureate of the 2024 Murai Grand Prix, the young Italian pianist Marco Ottaviani.
Marco Ottaviani is one of the most prominent pianists of the younger generation, who has already distinguished himself on the international stage with numerous awards and performances. He is currently refining his artistry under the guidance of Natalija Trull and Luca Rasca at the Accademia del Ridotto, as well as with Lovre Marušić at the Gustav Mahler Academy.
He demonstrated his exceptional talent at a very early age—giving his first recitals at just sixteen after winning first prize at the International “R. Schumann” Competition in Italy. He has received more than twenty awards at national and international competitions, including a victory at the La Palma d’Oro Competition 2025, the Premio Donzdorf award in Germany, the Chopin Competition in Rome, and the Murai Grand Prix 2024. He has also won other significant prizes across Europe and worldwide, including competitions in South Korea and Italy.
Since 2018, he has performed regularly throughout Europe and beyond, appearing in prestigious concert halls and theatres such as Salle Cortot in Paris, the Mahler Auditorium in Milan, Teatro Comunale in Bologna, and many others. As a soloist, he has collaborated with distinguished orchestras, including the Giuseppe Verdi Symphony Orchestra of Milan and the Bacău Philharmonic, and he is also active as a chamber musician.
His performances are recognized for their artistic maturity, expressiveness, and technical excellence, captivating both audiences and critics alike. The opening concert will offer a unique opportunity for the audience to experience a live performance by this exceptional young artist.
We invite all lovers of classical music to join us for the ceremonial opening of the competition and enjoy an evening of outstanding piano artistry!