BIOGRAPHY

Renowned for his “pianist-painter” artistry that transforms musical ideas into vivid color (La Presse), Philip Chiu is celebrated as one of Canada’s leading pianists, lauded for his brilliant technique, intuitive musicality, and engaging stage presence. Winner of the 2023 JUNO Award for Best Classical Solo Album and the first-ever Mécénat Musica Prix Goyer recipient, Philip captivates audiences through his expressive interpretations and heartfelt dedication to creating meaningful connections through music.

A sought-after soloist and chamber musician, Philip has performed extensively in major venues across Canada, the United States, Japan, and France. His dynamic collaborations have included performances with distinguished artists such as James Ehnes, Emmanuel Pahud, Régis Pasquier, Noah Bendix-Balgley, Bomsori Kim, Johannes Moser, and the New Orford String Quartet. As part of a longstanding duo with violinist Jonathan Crow, Philip's performances have become cherished by chamber music lovers. An accomplished touring artist with Prairie Debut, Jeunesses Musicales Canada, and Debut Atlantic, Philip has completed over 14 cross-Canada tours, bringing his music to communities nationwide.

Philip's recent album Voyages (ATMA) pays tribute to his birthplace of Hong Kong, following his JUNO-winning album Fables (ATMA), the second release in an ambitious triptych project that blends commissioned works by composers such as Anishinaabekwe artist Barbara Assiginaak and Chinese-Canadian Alice Ping Yee Ho with pieces by Ravel and Debussy. His recordings have established him as a champion of Canadian composers and contemporary music, including projects such as 24 Preludes for Solo Piano by John Burge (Centrediscs), Tapeo (ATMA) with cellist Cameron Crozman, and Night Light (Leaf Music) with flautist Lara Deutsch. His collaboration with Pentaèdre to honor Jacques Hétu’s music further showcases his dedication to cultural storytelling.

Philip’s recordings for labels like ATMA Classique, Warner Music, Analekta, Leaf Music, and Centrediscs are regularly broadcast on BBC Radio 3, France Musique, ICI Musique, and CBC Music. With a distinctive approach that emphasizes authenticity and connection, Philip Chiu continues to enchant audiences worldwide, establishing himself as a true ambassador of piano artistry and Canadian music.

November 2024

PHOTOS

Photography

Bo Huang (photo 1), Matthew Perrin (photos 2-3), Brent Calis (photos 4-6)

Click each image to download a hi-res version