"Dedicated to music as an art form that elevates the lives of all who experience it; that embraces and transcends the entire range of human emotion, expression and community that is vital to the cultural enrichment of society

JP is an award-winning pianist and teacher. An active soloist, collaborator, chamber musician, recording artist, repetiteur, pedagogue and researcher, he holds a Masters degree in Piano Performance from Western Michigan University in the United States. JP consequently graduated with a professional doctorate in piano performance from “Université de Montréal”. He was awarded Performers and Teachers Licentiate diplomas from UNISA as well as the performer's certificate from Trinity College in London, all with distinction. He has appeared for concerts in Africa, North America and Europe.

His most prominent musical mentors include Nettie Immelman, Ella Fourie, Albie van Schalkwyk, Silvia Roederer, Lori Sims and Paul Stewart. He has performed extensively in master classes, most notably for Niel Immelman (UK), Andrea Bonnata (Italy), Frank Glazer (a student of Artur Schnabel) and Andre Watts (USA).

His accolades include the Gertrude Buchanan Prize and Prize for best rendition of Liszt (UNISA), SAMRO Undergraduate study scholarships, Oppenheimer Memorial Trust Awards, Gold medals at National Solo and Ensemble competitions, a Wendy Ackerman Foundation Award, Bay View Music Festival Collaborative Piano Fellowships and the Gilmore International Keyboard Festival Fellowship.

In addition to his independent career, he has held positions at Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo College, North West University and the Tshwane University of Technology Opera School and St John's College.

JP is a passionate and dedicated teacher, highly in demand. After intensive study and practical training in piano pedagogy throughout his student years and beyond, he has spent much of his career on the establishment, development and nurturing of young musicians at various levels from beginner to advanced pupils. His stud" less...