performers
Through elegant musicality and an insightful approach to contemporary and established repertoire, Jean-Yves Thibaudet has earned a reputation as one of the world’s finest pianists. He is especially known for his diverse interests beyond the classical world, including numerous collaborations in film, fashion, and visual art. He is the first-ever Artist-in-Residence at the Colburn School, which awards several scholarships in his name.
A prolific recording artist, Thibaudet has appeared on more than 70 albums and six film scores. His extensive catalog has received two Grammy nominations, two ECHO Awards, the Preis der deutschen Schallplattenkritik, the Diapason d’Or, the CHOC du Monde de la Musique, the Edison Prize, and Gramophone awards. Recent recordings include Khachaturian, a celebration of the Armenian composer, and Gershwin Rhapsody, a selection of Gershwin pieces recorded with Michael Feinstein, including four newly-discovered works. Thibaudet is the soloist on Dario Marianelli’s recently reissued score for Pride & Prejudice, which was certified Gold by the RIAA in 2025, and his playing can be heard on Marianelli’s score for Atonement, Alexandre Desplat’s scores for The French Dispatch and Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close, and Aaron Zigman’s score for Wakefield. His concert wardrobe is designed by Dame Vivienne Westwood.
Performances
Profoundly imaginative and luminous in expression, Claude Debussy’s Préludes transformed the language of the piano. Celebrated pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet brings his lifelong affinity for these works to Bouchaine’s Olive Hill Estate, guiding listeners on an immersive journey through shimmering impressionistic landscapes and evocative musical poetry.
Jean-Yves Thibaudet and Ray Chen return to Festival Napa Valley for their debut duo recital, uniting two internationally acclaimed virtuosi. Chen joins Thibaudet, renowned for his distinctive artistry and wide-ranging repertoire, in an evening celebrating the expressive power and musical dialogue of violin and piano.