Alfred Brendel

Words still feel inadequate. Today we said farewell to Alfred Brendel, who passed on Monday 16 June 2025. The service was beautiful, filled with memories and music he cherished, played by those who carried his spirit in every note. I have no doubt he would have had something wry and brilliant to say about it all.

It is hard to grasp that he is gone, he has left an immense void. His influence runs deep - not only in the lives he touched personally, but in the generations of musicians shaped by his artistry. He set a standard; a rare fusion of intellect, wit and integrity.

I was fortunate enough to learn from him over the course of the past ten years, to witness his artistry up close and to share moments of laughter that revealed the warmth beneath the formidable mind. His legacy is vast and it lives on in every piece of music we play.

Thank you, Mr Brendel, for every note, every silence and everything you gave us. Rest well.

Here are some of my favourite photos of us together, capturing the essence of his being and his humour - they will forever make me smile.