How Pianists Celebrate Around the World: 10 Events That Inspired Us

Pianist Day, celebrated each year on November 8, has grown into a global tribute to pianists, keyboardists, teachers, and everyone who lives through music. Created in 2014 by Ivan Manko-Vertogradov, the day fills a long-overdue space in the music world — recognizing the artistry and hard work behind the piano.

Over the years, Pianist Day has spread to 31 countries and been celebrated at over 100 venues, becoming a cultural event that’s both personal and international. From grand concert halls to intimate home studios, pianists and music lovers have found unique ways to take part.

Here are 10 confirmed events from around the world that showcase the creativity, heart, and global spirit of Pianist Day.

1. Minsk, Belarus (2014)

The origin of Pianist Day. Held at the Palace of the Republic, this first celebration brought local pianists and students together in a formal concert setting. It laid the foundation for a growing worldwide tradition.

2. Moscow, Russia (2017)

An imaginative event titled Tropical Classic blended classical piano with a tropical-themed concert environment. It offered a refreshing take on tradition and demonstrated how Pianist Day can spark creative expression.

3. Shenzhen, China

One of the earliest large-scale Pianist Day celebrations in Asia, featuring a blend of traditional Chinese and Western performances. The event involved schools and students, emphasizing the educational and cultural exchange behind the music.

4. Belarus (2017)

A pianist set a national record by performing continuously for six hours. This marathon concert became one of the most ambitious tributes in Pianist Day history, symbolizing the discipline and devotion pianists bring to their art.

5. Portugal and Spain

DJ and producer Kerri Chandler teamed up with Toolroom Records for a live piano performance, bridging the gap between classical music and electronic genres. It proved Pianist Day isn’t confined to any one style.

6. San Miguel de Tucumán, Argentina

Pianist Maximo Nicolás hosted a piano and chamber music concert just ahead of the holiday, featuring classical works performed with a local touch — a great example of regional artistry connecting to global celebration.

7. Durban, South Africa

Jazz musician Neil Gonsalves performed at the Centre for Jazz and Popular Music, with all proceeds benefiting a local family. The event showed how Pianist Day can bring music and community support together.

8. London, UK

Renowned pianist Ingmar Lazar marked Pianist Day with a formal recital in London, offering audiences a high-caliber performance aligned with the day’s values of recognition and appreciation.

9. Bayerisch Gmain, Germany

Maya Purdue organized a charity concert titled New Moon. New Faces. The event highlighted emerging pianists and supported local causes — blending social awareness with celebration of new talent.

10. Munich, Italy

Davide Fasiello recorded a Tiny Desk-style performance in his home studio, offering a personal tribute to Pianist Day. His intimate video showed how even solo gestures can resonate on a global scale.

A Global Celebration — One Instrument, Many Voices

These events are just a glimpse into how Pianist Day is interpreted around the world. Each celebration is unique, reflecting local culture, individual creativity, and a shared love for the piano.

Whether it’s a full recital or a quiet session at home, every note played in honor of Pianist Day is part of a worldwide movement — one that reminds us that music connects us all.

To explore more stories or join the celebration this November 8, visit the official website at Pianist Day.