Maria Joao Pires - Discovering Sound

Hidden in the depths of the Portuguese country, pianist Maria Joao Pires's house and intriguing cultural centre is located, which attracts young talents and renowned musicians from far and wide. Pires deliberately established the place far beyond the reach of the official music business, to be able to propagate her passion for art, music and life according to her personal views. So, she gives classes according to her personal artistic principles, assisted by other teachers. To the piano sounds of composers like Chopin, Schubert, Beethoven, Mendelssohn, Brahms and one or two modern composers, Discovering Sound draws a portrait of both the centre and the pianist herself. The virtuoso piano player elucidates her distinct ideas, teaches, organises an in-house concert and bakes bread. `When you're very successful, you become isolated. Here in Belgais, I'm at home.'