February 3, 2025
About the Author: Arwen
If you’re living in London and looking to immerse yourself in some incredible piano concerts and festivals this year, you’re in the right place! Here’s a guide to the must-attend events for 2025.
During the late 1830s and 1840s, London became a key hub for classical piano performances.
The piano played a central role in the cultural life of many European cities, and the demand for both more advanced skills and the development of the instrument itself skyrocketed.
These performances eventually evolved into the unique public concert experiences we enjoy today.
Before diving into the specifics, let’s clarify the difference between a piano festival and a piano concert.
A piano festival typically spans multiple days and features a variety of performers, aiming to entertain a broader audience.
A piano concert, on the other hand, is a single event with one or a few performers and is often more formal.
Attending these events are a great way of meeting like-minded people who all share the same feelings about music.
Not sure which concert or festival to go to?
Here are short summaries on some of the top events in London to aid in your decision-making:
Must-See Piano Festivals and Concerts
London Piano Festival
When: Dates TBC for 2025
Where: Kings Place
One of London’s premier piano events, the London Piano Festival is a three-day celebration of both classical and jazz piano.
In 2024, world-class pianists like Lara Melda, Kit Armstrong, and Rose McLachlan dazzled audiences with their performances.
Though the dates for 2025 are yet to be confirmed, it’s a must-add to your list!
EFG London Jazz Festival
When: November 14-23, 2025
Where: Various venues across London
This annual festival is a highlight of the UK’s jazz calendar, showcasing incredible jazz pianists and musicians.
With over 100,000 attendees and 300+ live shows at venues across the city, this event brings together jazz lovers from all walks of life.
The festival spans 10 days and promises some of the best jazz performances in the world.
Tickets sell out quickly, so don’t wait!
Alice Sara Ott
When: February 7, 2025
Where: Southbank Centre
Born in Germany, Alice is known for her virtuosic technical skills and profound musicality, and is one of the most exciting pianists of her generation.
She has a wide discography of classical works and is often noted for her emotional depth in performance.
Fun fact: she plays barefoot!
Alice will perform Beethoven at the Southbank Centre in February—an unmissable event for classical music lovers.
Mitsuko Uchida
When: February 1 & March 7, 2025
Where: Various venues in London
Mitsuko Uchida, born in Japan, is renowned for her interpretations of Mozart, Beethoven, and Schubert. A Grammy-winning artist, she regularly performs with major orchestras and at top festivals around the world.
Don’t miss your chance to see her live in London this year!
Paul Lewis
When: May 4, 2025
Where: Various venues in London
Acclaimed for his interpretations of the classical repertoire, Paul Lewis is widely regarded as one of the leading pianists of his generation.
He has worked with some of the world’s most prestigious orchestras and is a regular performer at international festivals.
Don’t miss his London performance in May—it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience.
The Planets: Rachmaninov & Holst
When: September 20, 2025
Where: Various venues
This exciting concert features two monumental works: Rachmaninov’s Piano Concerto No. 2 and Holst’s The Planets.
It promises to be a captivating experience, perfect for classical music lovers.
Whether you go with a friend or solo, this is a night of music you won’t soon forget.
The BBC Proms
When: July – September, 2025
Where: Royal Albert Hall
The BBC Proms is considered the world’s largest classical music festival, with an eight-week season of performances that take place at the iconic Royal Albert Hall.
The Proms have been a cherished event in British culture for over a century. Tickets for this event are highly sought after, so be sure to secure yours early!
Royal Albert Hall
When: Various dates throughout the year
Where: Royal Albert Hall
While we’re on the topic of incredible concerts and festivals, any performance held in this grand venue is an experience in itself.
Known for its incredible acoustics and stunning architecture, the Royal Albert Hall hosts numerous top-tier piano concerts, including performances by Ludovico Einaudi, Yunchan Lim, and Chloe Flower in the upcoming months.
Why You Should Attend a Piano Festival or Concert
If you love pianos—or just have a thing for music—then attending a piano concert or festival is definitely something you don’t want to miss.
London has no shortage of incredible performances, so whether you’re a classical music newbie or a seasoned fan, there’s something for everyone.
These events are way more than just a night out—they’re a chance to connect with music in a way you can’t get from a recording.
There’s something magical about hearing a pianist bring a piece to life in person—whether it’s a powerful Beethoven symphony or a lively jazz improvisation.
You can feel the energy in the room, and that connection between the performer and the audience is like nothing else.
Plus, the atmosphere in these venues, from the sound to the vibe, makes the experience unforgettable.
But it’s not just about the music. Festivals and concerts are a great way to discover new artists, get inspired, and simply enjoy the magic of live performances.
Whether you’re there to relax, be inspired, or just have a great time, a piano concert is always a good idea.
You’ll leave with memories and music that stay with you long after the last note fades.
It’s also a fantastic place to meet new people with the same love for music!
Conclusion
London is home to world-class pianists and performances that showcase the beauty and depth of the instrument.
So, go ahead—grab your tickets and immerse yourself in the magic of live piano music!
