World-renowned American pianist Kevin Kenner performed Beethoven's Third Piano Concerto at the Cairo Opera House on Saturday, September 19. The event attracted an audience of over 800 attendees. Kenner was invited by Maestro Ahmed El Saedi in collaboration with the Cultural Affairs Office of the U.S. Embassy in Cairo to participate in the Cairo Symphony’s Beethoven Festival.
Following the performance, a reception hosted by the U.S. Embassy featured remarks from U.S. Ambassador Stephen Beecroft. He emphasized the concert's significance in promoting cross-cultural engagement, stating, “I hope tonight will serve as a symbol of what we can accomplish when we work with partners from across the world behind a common goal.” Ambassador Beecroft highlighted the unique combination of "an American piano soloist perform[ing] the work of a German composer, with the accompaniment of a predominantly Egyptian orchestra, in a country that represents 7,000 years of international civilization."
Kevin Kenner has an extensive background in international study and travel. Originally from California, he trained in Poland and now divides his time between Krakow, London, and Miami. He holds teaching positions at both the Royal College of Music and the Frost School of Music at the University of Miami. Kenner is celebrated for his talent and has received numerous accolades; The Washington Post recently described him as “a major talent…an artist whose intellect, imagination and pianism speak powerfully and eloquently.” His performances include collaborations with prestigious European orchestras such as the Berlin Symphony Orchestra and Czech Philharmonic.
During his visit to Cairo, Kenner engaged with both Egyptian and international musicians beyond his stage performance. He conducted a master class for local piano students, expressing his enthusiasm: “I was absolutely thrilled to be in Cairo for the second time in my life,” said Kenner. “It was a pleasure working with Maestro El Saedi, and I most enjoyed—apart from the concert—meeting students from the music academy.”