Created to honor the memory of pianist Radu Lupu, a leading figure in 20th-century piano performance, the Radu Lupu Foundation upholds a deeply human vision of music. Beyond technical virtuosity, it champions an introspective, almost intimate approach to the repertoire—a quest for sonic truth that characterized the artist’s uniquely distinctive style of playing.
It was with this in mind that the Radu Lupu Prize was conceived: not merely as an award, but as a genuine commitment to supporting exceptional young musicians destined to leave their mark on their generation.
A place of creation and transmission, La Cité Bleue has established itself as the ideal setting for hosting the concerts associated with the Prize. Through its acoustics, its artistic standards, and its openness to new forms, it offers the winners much more than a stage: a space for expression and for connecting with the audience.
Driven by the same artistic standards and a deep commitment to young talent, these two institutions thus build together a rare space: one where heritage meets emerging talent. In 2024 and again in 2025, two memorable concerts were presented there, showcasing the winners of the Radu Lupu Prize. These evenings allowed the Geneva audience to discover artists on the cusp of their international careers—musicians whose talent, sensitivity, and maturity left a lasting impression.
The 2024 Radu Lupu Prize: The Emergence of a Unique Talent
The 2024 Radu Lupu Foundation Prize was awarded to pianist Vsevolod Zavidov, an exceptional young musician whose artistic maturity is already making an impression on the international scene.
Born in Moscow in 2005, trained from a very young age at the Tchaikovsky Conservatory and later at the Gnessin School, Vsevolod Zavidov quickly established himself as a musical personality in his own right. A winner of several prestigious international competitions, he is currently continuing his studies in Geneva with Nelson Goerner, confirming his strong ties to the Swiss music scene.
Invited to perform at La Cité Bleue, he delivered a concert of great intensity, revealing an approach to the repertoire that is both profound and sensitive. In the tradition of Radu Lupu, his playing is distinguished by a demanding pursuit of sound and a genuine sense of inner depth.
The 2025 Radu Lupu Prize: A New Voice in the Cello World
In 2025, the Radu Lupu Foundation Prize was awarded to the Franco-German cellist Maxime Grizard, who was praised for the elegance of his playing, the sincerity of his expression, and the richness of his tonal palette.
Trained notably by Claire Oppert, Emmanuelle Bertrand, and currently by Thomas Grossenbacher at the Zurich University of the Arts, Maxime Grizard has established himself as a rising star of his generation. His career, marked by numerous prestigious academies and collaborations, reflects his artistic curiosity and deep commitment.
The concert presented at La Cité Bleue was a highlight: bringing together Maxime Grizard and Vsevolod Zavidov, the 2024 laureate, this musical encounter gave rise to an inspired dialogue centered on chamber music. Driven by a shared intensity and a common passion for musical exploration, the two artists offered the audience an evening of great expressive richness.
Beyond these concerts, the partnership between La Cité Bleue and the Radu Lupu Foundation is part of a long-term vision: to support artists, build bridges between generations, and offer the public exceptional musical experiences.
By combining high standards, the transmission of knowledge, and openness, this collaboration helps make La Cité Bleue a place where music is not merely performed—it is lived, passed on, and reinvented.
