Thomas Schwan

Deeply thankful to my friend Walter Schuermans from The Piano Corner for this truly kind and insightful review of my live interpretation of the Chopin Nocturnes:

"Thomas Schwan’s live recording of the complete Chopin Nocturnes is the work of a musician who has nothing to prove and everything under control." [...]
"The foundation of this interpretation is sound. Schwan’s sonority is stable, centred, and honest. There is warmth, but no indulgence. The singing line is never detached from its harmonic base. Bass voices are articulated with the same care as the melody, creating a vertical clarity that recalls Bach’s contrapuntal thinking." [...]
"Schwan does not phrase by instinct or tradition. He phrases by function. Each melodic inflexion is justified by what happens beneath it. Rubato is present, but it is structural, grounded in harmonic rhythm rather than emotional impulse. This gives the music an inner steadiness, even in the most vulnerable moments."
"What truly defines this cycle is architectural thinking. Each Nocturne unfolds as a complete structure, sustained from first bar to last. Transitions are handled with foresight. Inner voices are neither highlighted nor neglected. They are simply there, doing their work. This is Chopin understood by someone who knows how voices relate, how lines coexist, and how form is built over time." [...]
"There is also restraint. Schwan refuses to sentimentalise. He allows silence, tension, and resolution to speak without interference. This lends the music dignity and gravity. Chopin emerges not as a composer of moods but as a serious architect of sound, fully aware of structure, balance, and necessity." [...]
"Thomas Schwan plays Chopin with the seriousness one usually reserves for Bach, and in doing so, reveals how closely these worlds are connected. The result is a reading that feels grounded, durable, and quietly authoritative. Highly recommended."

THE NOCTURNES RECONSIDERED: THOMAS SCHWAN AT THE PIANO Thomas Schwan’s live recording of the complete Chopin Nocturnes is the work of a musician who has nothing to prove and everything under control. What immediately sets this cycle apart is that it feels informed by a discipline rarely associated with Chopin. One hears a mind shaped by Bach. The expe...

Chopin: Sonata No. 2 Op. 35 in B flat minor (Live in Italy, 08-11-2006)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f0vleveg1CQ&feature=youtu.be

Chopin: Piano Sonata No. 2 Op. 35 in B flat minor - Thomas Schwan, Live, Score Video From a live recital in Italy on August 11, 2006; this was one of my first recitals ever, at age 21. Mined from my archives (audio has many distortions and di...

My live performance of the complete Chopin Nocturnes (Boston Oct. 5, 2024) also now available on CD from our newly created label Con Anima; 2-disc set available at https://www.thomasschwan.com/chopin-nocturnes-thomas-schwan-cd

Discover Inspiration and World-Class Instruction at the UNT Summer Piano Camp!

Join us for an unforgettable experience at the UNT Summer Piano Camp, where you’ll receive exceptional instruction from concert pianists and esteemed pedagogues. Not only will you refine and elevate your piano skills through hands-on instruction and real-world performance experience, but you’ll also enhance your resume, setting yourself apart for college admissions or job opportunities, all while studying under world-class artists at the prestigious University of North Texas.

The camp is open to high school students (ages 13 and up) as well as college-age students of all skill levels. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced music major, this camp is designed for you!

Our camp offers daily public masterclasses, private piano lessons, and ensemble lessons focused on two-piano and four-hands repertoire. Whether you bring performance-ready pieces or new works you’ve just begun, you’ll receive personalized feedback tailored to your current level. You’ll gain invaluable advice, encouragement, and the opportunity to work in a supportive, friendly environment, making new friends and connecting with fellow musicians.

In addition to lessons, you'll participate in workshops and discussions on essential topics such as sight-reading, practice techniques, memorization, and more. You’ll also have the chance to hear our distinguished faculty perform in the captivating opening Faculty Recital.

All participants will have the opportunity to study privately and perform publicly. Public performances will take the form of masterclasses and recitals in the beautiful UNT concert halls. Every participant will have the chance to perform in a recital featuring solo repertoire, as well as another recital showcasing two-piano and four-hands pieces.

With dedicated practice spaces available for every participant, we also offer optional housing and meal packages for added convenience.

The 2025 camp faculty will feature renowned concert artists Adam Wodnicki, Steven Harlos, Thomas Schwan, Brad Beckman, Liudmila Georgievskaya, and Oscar Macchioni.