The grande dame of the piano, Maria João Pires, will return to the Netherlands in 2026 for a one-time, extraordinary performance. She will share the stage with Canadian master pianist Marc-André Hamelin – a meeting of two unique musical minds. Together, they will present a full quatre-mains program: four hands, one soul. For Pires, this also marks an introduction to new repertoire, alongside a kindred musical thinker. An evening of rare synergy. One chance to hear it, one chance to experience it!

Update 4 November 2025

It is with a still sadness, and above all with deep gratitude, that we announce that Maria João Pires has had to bring her international concert career to a definitive close due to a neurological condition earlier this year. A profound decision, taken with the same dignity and inspiration with which she has given her musical voice to the world for more than six decades.

Her art was of unprecedented expressiveness: listening, breathing, honest. She knew how to touch her audience without ever seeking grand ostentation. In the Netherlands, she found an audience that embraced her poetic musicality from the very beginning and welcomed her whenever she performed here, including on the stage of World Master Pianists, where her presence created unforgettable moments, right up until her very last recital on 19 March this year.

What she left behind — from sublime interpretations to her warm guidance of young musicians – lives on as a precious legacy in the world of piano music. And those who know her are aware that she will continue to devote herself with unwavering passion to the future of the art, even off stage: inspiring, teaching, sharing. In silence, she remains a beacon for young talents who need her.

Ticket sales for this concert have been suspended while we process the program adjustment. We will inform the public as soon as more is known.

Update 7 November

In consultation with all parties involved, it has been decided – contrary to earlier announcements – to cancel Marc-André Hamelin’s recital, which was to take over the scheduled duo recital with Maria João Pires on 20 April 2026 at Amare The Hague. Ticket purchasers will receive a full refund and will be informed personally by Amare The Hague in due course.

Together with Marc-André Hamelin, we are seeking a suitable date in the 2026/2027 season and look forward to presenting him to you at De Nieuwe Kerk The Hague with a magnificent programme within World Master Pianists. Further information will follow when the 2026-2027 season programme is released via our website and media channels.