First Year Specialist (Year 12) Sam is a promising young pianist who has been thrilling audiences on international stages since his debut in the 'Child's Dream in Midsummer' concert in Hong Kong City Hall in 2023.
Sam’s growing reputation is reflected in performances at renowned venues including the Mozarteum Salzburg, the Golden Hall in Vienna, and the Shenzhen International Music Festival. In 2025, he also performed in Hong Kong and Rome.
In February, Sam was invited to perform at one of the most prestigious concert venues in the world, the Philharmonie Berlin, widely regarded as “the musical heart of Berlin”. With its distinctive tent-like shape and striking yellow interior, the Philarmonie is one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks. This invitation followed Sam’s success in winning a prestigious international piano competition.
The concert took place on the afternoon of Sunday 22 February in the main auditorium, where Sam performed Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 22 in E-flat major, K. 482. Already an accomplished pianist and A Level musician, he continues to make an excellent contribution to Charterhouse Music.
The Berliner Symphoniker has described him as “among the most promising young pianists of his generation”.
Performing with the Berlin Symphony Orchestra in a world-renowned venue is a phenomenal opportunity for any young musician. Sam is an absolute joy to teach – hard-working, positive, and full of energy. His focus is extraordinary, and he has the rare ability to trust his technique while still playing with genuine enjoyment.
CLIVE Williamson, TEACHER OF PIANO
Reflecting on the invitation, Sam shared that he felt both excited and shocked to be given the opportunity to perform with one of the world’s leading orchestras in such an iconic venue. Speaking about his choice of repertoire, he said:
“I performed Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 22 in E-flat major, K482. I chose this piece because I simply find it fascinating. Mozart has always been one of my favourite composers, not just because his music is beautiful and elegant, but because I admire him as a person. He was playful and emotional. I was delighted that the organisers allowed me to choose a piece that I truly love. I felt that if I was going to play in such a special place, I should perform something that means a lot to me personally.”
Balancing his musical commitments with academic study requires considerable dedication. When asked about his practice routine, he explained:
"I usually just practice during my free periods, private study time or after School. I typically spend 3–4 hours a day practising at School, and complete my Specialist studies during Banco time (homework). The schedule is tight, but I enjoy doing something I love."
Sam also expressed his gratitude for the support he has received at School:
"I really want to thank everyone from the Music department, who allowed me to perform in School before the concert. Although it was not with the orchestra, it gave me the chance to play through the piece. Also, thank you to Dr Millard, with whom we spent time talking through the piece in my A Level course, which gave me a better understanding of the piece and allowed me to better interpret it."
Looking ahead, Sam is eager to build on his experiences:
“I am looking forward to more opportunities to perform, whether with an orchestra or in chamber music. It is a wonderful experience, and I feel very lucky to have had these opportunities.”
