Photo : Erik Berchot
An evening with Erik Berchot - masterclass
Throughout his career, Erik Berchot has had the privilege of accompanying Charles Aznavour on the piano for over ten years and developing a close musical relationship with Michel Legrand, whom he met during his formative years at the Conservatoire. Awarded at the prestigious Chopin International Piano Competition in Warsaw, he has a unique background at the crossroads of these three great musical figures. A piano professor at the École Normale de Musique in Paris, he will teach piano students the secrets of interpreting Chopin.
Conservatoire Municipal Francis Poulenc (Paris 16th)
About
Trained at the Conservatoire national supérieur de musique in Paris, where he was awarded first prize for piano and chamber music in Yvonne Loriod's class, Erik Berchot continued his studies with Germaine Mounier before becoming a soloist at Radio France.
A laureate of numerous international competitions, including the Marguerite-Long, Viotti, Maria-Canals, and Frédéric-Chopin competitions in Warsaw, he has developed a career that has led him to international stages and the cinema alike. In 1985, he lent his talents as a pianist to Claude Lelouch's film Partir, revenir, where he performed Rachmaninoff's Second Concerto as well as an original work by Michel Legrand.
A lasting musical complicity ties him to the latter, who entrusted him with several transcriptions of his compositions. He also shares the stage with actor Philippe Étesse in Chopin ou le Malheur de l’idéal, a show that has enjoyed great success with nearly 250 performances.
From 2007, he accompanied Charles Aznavour on the piano for over ten years during concerts in France and around the world. Alongside these collaborations, he continues his work as a concert performer and records works by great composers, including Chopin, Rachmaninoff, Saint-Saëns, and Debussy.
In 2009, he was named a Knight of the National Order of Merit, an honor bestowed upon him by Michel Legrand.
He is currently on stage at the Théâtre de Passy in the show J’ai trois amours, running until December 29th.
Our take on this event
Picture yourself in the presence of a true keyboard legend who has spent decades alongside iconic musical giants. This intimate masterclass offers a rare glimpse into the life and technique of a seasoned soloist who has graced both grand concert halls and silver screens. Immerse yourself in the anecdotes and melodies of a master musician in the heart of the capital.
On Friday, January 22, 2027, the Conservatoire Municipal Francis Poulenc hosts an exclusive masterclass with renowned pianist Erik Berchot. This session offers a deep dive into the artistic journey of a musician known for his work with Charles Aznavour and Michel Legrand. The event runs from 17:30 to 20:30, providing a rare opportunity to engage with his technical expertise and professional insights. Admission is free, and the venue is fully wheelchair accessible and equipped to support visitors with cognitive disabilities. It is an ideal evening for piano enthusiasts to discover the career of a distinguished concert pianist in an intimate setting.
Renowned pianist Erik Berchot, a laureate of the Chopin and Marguerite-Long international competitions, presents a masterclass at the Conservatoire Municipal Francis Poulenc in the 16th arrondissement. This event is scheduled for Friday, January 22, 2027, taking place from 17:30 to 20:30.
Erik Berchot's career spans international concert stages, film scores for Claude Lelouch, and a decade-long collaboration with Charles Aznavour. During this masterclass, attendees will explore his extensive experience as a soloist and his deep musical connection with composers like Michel Legrand. He offers insights into his repertoire, which includes works by Rachmaninov, Debussy, and Saint-Saëns.
Attendance is free of charge for all guests. The venue, the Conservatoire Municipal Francis Poulenc, ensures accessibility for everyone, with full wheelchair access and specific facilities for individuals with cognitive disabilities.
