“When I heard the Russian-American pianist Pavel Petrov plays Scriabin’s music for left hand alone at Classical Underground earlier this month, I was amazed that one hand could produce so much mystery and magic. And the soulful beauty of the music and the playing moved me the closest this critic can come to tears. The opportunity to hear him play a complete recital, and for both right and left hands, will be a great treat. Born in a small city of Pyatigorsk, in the Caucasus Mountains of Southern Russia, he made his solo debut at the Bolshoi Hall of the Moscow State Conservatory at the age of 14. Since then, he has received critical acclaim for his performances throughout Russia, Europe, Asia and North America. He is one of those musicians whose artistic core is so focused and centered that there is almost no physical surface evidence. Trained in the rich traditions of the Russian piano school, Petrov graduated from Moscow Central Music School for gifted children and earned a Master of Music degree in piano performance, pedagogy, chamber music and accompaniment from Tchaikovsky Moscow State Conservatory in Moscow, Russia. He was a student of Valery Kastelsky who was a pupil of legendary Stanislav Neuhaus.”

“Pavel Petrov is not only a great find for Westminster Presbyterian Church, but also for the community around us. This church has a legacy of valuing traditional worship and classical music, and the addition of Pavel helps us to continue with that focus as we move forward.”

“Masterful performance abilities combined with emotional colorfulness, depth of tone, exquisite taste, and artistic originality. One of the most brilliant and distinctive musicians of his generation.”

“A musician with an extraordinary talent ... A subtle musician, freely and masterly managing his instrument ... [his] sophisticated sense of style, combined with his mastery of sound and invariably attracts a wide circle of listeners.”

“Profound, subtle musician ... distinguished by a great technique and emotional intensity ... powerful interpretations and deeply touching performances.”

“A very gifted and talented pianist. His performances have great command, flair, temperament and sensibility.”