REVIEWS
"A magnificent first prize: that of the Irishman Finghin Collins. Indisputable. Undisputed. Opening the fireworks with a Third Concerto of Beethoven nourished with power and life, the tall young man did not find an opponent of his stature in this evening....... the future first prize-winner danced on the music which he held at a bridle's length....."
La Presse, September 1999
"The 22 year old Irish musician earned his victory performing Beethoven's third piano concerto in C minor. Collins' playing was characterized by maturity and technical perfection, a delicate touch and clear articulation, and a wonderful balance between dramatic impetus and tranquil lyricism. It was impressive to see and hear how Collins integrated inner composure, precision of attack and musical reflection into his performance."
Der Bund, September 1999
"Perhaps the best thing in the whole evening [Wigmore Hall debut] was Berg's Sonata - impulsive passion and languorous deliquescence in due measure, and a complete understanding of the tensions and shape of this obsessively wrought single movement. It also gave Collins the chance to enjoy some luxurious tone colouring...."
Adrian Jack, The Independent, London May 1999
"His playing of Brahms First Piano Concerto .... was an outstanding interpretation, and surely has put the seal of approval on his career. Collins [brought] a real touch of pathos to the lovely slow movement and [threw] off the fireworks as though he had been playing the work for decades."
Ian Fox, The Sunday Tribune, Dublin May 1999
"Young star performs with sure touch..... He combined pianistic clarity with power playing in a coherent performance that underlined his growing maturity....."
Gus Smith, The Sunday Independent, May 1999.
"Increasingly the artist as opposed to the student / competitor, Collins' playing was characterised by confidence, sincerity and restraint."
Michael Dungan, The Evening Herald, Dublin April 1999
"Finghin Collins both played and directed his performance of Mozart's A major Concerto no. 12; the long flowing lines and easy virtuosity was impressive by any standards. Is he now going to add conducting to his many talents?"
Ian Fox, Sunday Tribune, April 1999
"Finghin Collins' certainty in technique and interpretation allowed one to relish this concerto's light and shade, as well as its leonine energy ..... this was an assured, intelligent and enjoyable performance from soloist and conductor alike..."
Martin Adams, The Irish Times April 1999
"....it is one of the most demanding and worthwhile piano programmes heard in a long time...all the music performed demanded brilliant technique and keyboard controlled as the recital proceeded one was conscious of the deceptive ease with which problems were overcome. Total control and command of dynamics were of the high order..... and the virtuoso finale provided vivid contrasts."
Rathcol, The Belfast Telegraph, February 1999
