At the festival we have some pianists who play at the masterclasses and some of the concerts.
Ulrik Vesti
Pianist
Ulrik Vesti is a pianist and improvisor with a diploma from The Royal Academy of Music Aarhus, and further studies from the Art of Practicing Institute in New York. For years he has had extensive concert activity both as a soloist and accompanist, and furthermore released several recordings with his own compositions. On a daily basis he works as an accompanist at the Royal Danish Theatre, as well as Tivoli Ballet Theatre in Copenhagen.
Hazel Friedman
Pianist
Born in California, USA, pianist Hazel Friedman made her orchestral debut at age 17 with the San Diego Symphony. Hazel has won first prize in numerous solo competitions, including the 2020 Frank Huntington Beebe Fund to pursue graduate studies in Denmark. In 2023, she completed her candidate’s degree at The Royal Danish Academy of Music (DKDM). Now residing in Copenhagen, Hazel is an accompanist for DKDM, with a specialty in brass and woodwind collaboration. Hazel is excited to be a part of the team of accompanists for this years’ Nordic Piccolo Festival.
Emil Gryesten
Pianist
Emil Gryesten Jensen is a Danish pianist educated at The Royal Danish Academy of Music and Sibelius Academy, with further studies in Italy. He has received top prizes at several international piano competitions, including the Steinway Competition in Hamburg and the Nordic Piano Competition.
As a soloist and chamber musician, Emil has performed at festivals across Europe and the United States, including a debut at Carnegie Hall in New York. He has recorded for Danish Radio (DR) and Finland’s YLE, and released several albums.
Alongside his performing career, he teaches piano and chamber music at the Royal Danish Academy of Music.
