Classical Smackdown: Heart and Soul by Frederic Chiu

Frederic Chiu’s innovative programme, Classical Smackdown, is a contest between two composers, where they face off in head-to-head comparisons and listeners vote for their favourite. With over 100 Smackdowns across 28 U.S. states and 8 countries, this unique interactive experience gives the audience the final say.

In this concert, Chiu performs selected works by Prokofiev and Debussy. Both revolutionised Chopin-era piano technique, but in completely different directions. After each round, the audience casts their vote via paper ballot, collected at the end of the concert. Results will be shared by email and posted at classicalsmackdown.com.

The fun programme promises great contrasts, atmosphere, and excitement!

Frederic Chiu performs at major venues on five continents, including Lincoln Center in New York, the Kennedy Center in Washington, Le Châtelet in Paris, and the Mozarteum in Buenos Aires, while also touring extensively in smaller and more unconventional venues. He collaborates with Classical music friends such as Joshua Bell, Pierre Amoyal, and the St. Lawrence String Quartet, as well as non-Classical collaborators like jazz pianist Bob James and storyteller David Gonzalez, bringing vivid live piano experiences to audiences of all kinds.

Chiu has recorded the most extensive collection of Prokofiev’s complete piano works, and his personal relationship with the Prokofiev family has made him a world-recognised advocate for the composer. Across 28 albums, he has also recorded works by Chopin, Liszt, Ravel, Mendelssohn, Brahms, Rossini, and Grieg, as well as the Beethoven/Liszt Symphonies No. 5 and 7. His wide-ranging discography includes Hymns and Dervishes (music of Gurdjieff/de Hartmann), Distant Voices: Music of Claude Debussy & Gao Ping, and Schubert’s Fantasy for Violin and Piano, demonstrating the breadth of his artistic legacy.

Frederic Chiu currently teaches at both Carnegie Mellon University and The Hartt School. 

Website: www.fredericchiu.com

The Institute of Music at UCSI University is pleased to announce the 4th Piano Pedagogy Conference, taking place from 23–25 September 2025. This year’s theme, Teaching and Beyond: Sustaining Passion and Performance, reflects our commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal for Quality Education—to equip all learners with the skills to promote sustainable development.

From amateur to professional, musicians seek to sustain artistic passion, physical well-being, and the joy of playing. This conference explores how teachers, students, and performers can foster longevity in their musical journeys through sustainable and inclusive practices. Join us as we explore topics related to piano teaching and learning, pedagogical trends, current issues in the piano industry, and more - encompassing both classical and contemporary areas!

Website: https://ppc.ucsiuniversity.edu.my/