André Rieu Pianist Stéphanie Detry

Getting Acquainted With Pianist

Stéphanie Detry

The piano has always been Stéphany Detry’s first love, and from an early age she has always felt a strong bond between her and that instrument. The violin just followed as a second choice. But both instruments played an important role in her life. One led to the other.

 "André is so fascinating and charismatic, he dances and you dance along"

I was happy when after completing my studies at the conservatory I could start right away with André Rieu as a violinist. The piano is a solitary instrument. Seldom is there place for one in an orchestra. For many years I have enjoyed playing the violin. But when our pianist left, and André asked me to take his place, it was as if I came home; I am one with the piano, this is my true talent. Although I now seldom touch my violin, I am forever grateful to that instrument. It was for me the means to be able to work with André and his phenomenal orchestra. The concert piano plays a specific role; it is one of the pillars in the orchestra, and just like the percussion instruments, the brass instruments and the basses, an undeniable foundation. When we are on tour the instrument is tuned prior to every concert. All the traveling we do affects the instrument. And because of the complexity of our logistics, I have three concert pianos which can often be found in several different places throughout the world. By playing the piano, I am much more in the spotlight than by playing the violin. That is exciting, but also confronting. I know the entire score "Ballade for Adeline" by heart, but always have that in front of me, I need that security.

I always try to improve on my technical skills, and think that as a musician I will continue to evolve since we always grow as human beings. I have gained more life experiences, and you can undoubtedly hear that in my music. The different worlds in which I live, the touring and then transitioning back home again, can sometimes be difficult. But the price I pay for that is relatively small. I sincerely believe that we create value; music is a universal language, it touches you and effects you. Although we leave again and travel to other countries, we always leave something behind. We opened something, a heart maybe, and mutually connected people with one another. It does give you lots of satisfaction to have been able to have been a part of that. Sometimes it is as if I float above myself, watching us on stage in a far away foreign land, and making thousands of people happy with our music. It is unreal, and yet I feel intensely happy. André is the hub, the motor and the soul. His life influences your life. He is indestructible, he is so fascinating and charismatic, he dances and you dance along."

Stéphany Detry was born in Liège in 1973. As serene and humble as she appears in her daily life, on stage you’ll see a totally different personality. She is an avid photographer and makes photo diaries of life on tour.

Thanksto John for the Translation of this article from the magazine, with more to come!