Memorial recital in aid of Hospiscare.

A WORLD class musician is set to entertain audiences in Honiton as part of memorial recital in memory of one of his dear friends.

Acclaimed pianist, Andreas Boyde, will be performing at the special recital in St Paul’s Church in memory of fellow pianist and friend Joanna Leach, who passed away earlier this year.

The recital is in aid of Hospiscare, which provided much-needed help and support to Jo before she died.

Music has been a very important part of Andreas’ life and was nurtured from a very young age.

“I started playing the piano at the age of four. I came from a very musical home, my father and older brother both played the piano and I used to think that it looked like such fun I wanted to be part of it. I grew into it,” says Andreas.

Andreas was given the nickname Monsieur 100,000 Volts by one music critic, which seems to have stuck ever since.

The German pianist, who now lives in London, has performed at renowned concert venues around the world and has played with the London Philharmonic Orchestra and many other renowned orchestras.

Andreas met Joanna in Fulham where they were neighbours and told the Midweek Herald that she was a great inspiration to him.

“Jo was a great inspiration and I would often play to her and sought her advice,” he adds.

The international Steinway artist will be performing a selection of five works including Brahms Scherzo, Haydn Sonata in C major, Liszt and Schumann, which he has selected himself.

He said: “The recital should reflect the various aspects of our relationship. I have picked pieces I would have played to Jo.

“I am really looking forward to the recital. It will be something very personal.”

Liz Tirard, who has been helping to organise the event, said: “It is a huge privilege to have Andreas performing in Honiton.” She added: “We have organised a post-concert reception and a buffet, with a licensed bar at �7 per head, in the Mackarness Hall, adjacent to St Paul’s Church.

“The substantial buffet is being provided by Mary Bolshaw and her amazing Hospiscare team, and will be superb.

“There will be an opportunity to meet Andreas at the reception and he will be available to sign CDs. All proceeds from the reception will go directly to Hospiscare.”

Tickets for the recital, on Saturday, November 26, go on sale in Honiton’s Tourist Information Centre on October 1.