András Schiff, a renowned Hungarian pianist and authority on Bach's interpretation, shared insights ahead of his upcoming recital in Seoul. Schiff emphasized his commitment to perform Bach alongside other great composers like Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven. He explained his philosophy of performance, where he prefers to choose his program spontaneously based on the day's mood and circumstances rather than pre-announcing it a year in advance, which he finds unrealistic. Schiff views each program as a work of art in itself, interconnected through its historical context and essence, making performances both enjoyable and educational experiences.

Having overcome a challenging upbringing as a Holocaust survivor, Schiff's artistic journey was not linear. He faced significant obstacles in Hungary, where he often had to improvise with inadequate instruments during performances. His resilience led him to exile in the UK, and eventually, to pursuing his career in the US, where he performed in various unconventional venues. Throughout his career, Schiff has been vocal about his political beliefs, taking clear stands against political movements he opposes, which underscores his view that art cannot be separated from the political and social realms of existence.

Schiff also expressed admiration for the upcoming generation of pianists, particularly Im Yun-chan, whom he believes possesses remarkable talent that deserves careful nurturing. As Schiff prepares for his recital, he reflects on the role of artists in society and the profound impact they can have through their work, both musically and politically. His statements highlight the responsibility of established artists to mentor and support young talents like Im, ensuring the continuation of artistic excellence in the future.