Mustonen, Olli

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Mustonen, Olli

Mustonen, Olli, Finnish pianist, conductor, and composer; b. Helsinki, June 7, 1967. He was only 5 when he began studying piano, harpsichord, and composition. After piano lessons with Ralf Gothoni, he pursued his studies with Eero Heinonen (piano) and Einojuhani Rautavaara (composition). After making his debut in 1984, he appeared with the principal Finnish orchs. and soon performed with orchs. on the Continent. In 1986 he made his U.S. debut at the Newport (R.I.) Festival. In 1987 he appeared for the first time in London. He toured the Far East with the Stockholm Phil. in 1989. In 1991 he played at the London Promenade Concerts. In addition to his engagements with the world’s leading orchs., Mustonen also pursued an active recital and chamber music career. His extraordinary technique is matched by a challenging spontaneous approach to interpretation. In later years, he pursued a career as a conductor as well. Among his compositions are 2 piano concertos.

—Nicolas Slonimsky/Laura Kuhn/Dennis McIntire