Gouda piano day: watch young soloists develop, then hear Rachmaninoff

On 23 July, Pianofestival Gouda brings its Summer Special to Houtmansplantsoen and Sint-Janskerk. It suits families who want to see how music is rehearsed as well as audiences seeking a full concerto.

• The public masterclass pairs four young pianists with a youth orchestra, revealing how tempo, breathing and the balance between soloist and ensemble are adjusted rather than hiding the process.
• Nathalia Milstein closes as soloist in Rachmaninoff’s Second Piano Concerto. Its path from dark opening chords to broad melodies makes the relationship between piano and large orchestra unusually easy to feel.
• The programme moves between the green Houtmansplantsoen and the historic acoustic space of Sint-Janskerk. Check each session, price and availability through the official programme rather than assuming one day ticket.

Hokimi field note: With a child learning music, see the masterclass before the finale; the pair makes repeated adjustment meaningful. Confirm the address printed on each ticket.