NY-based Malaysian pianist Tengku Irfan wows Singapore piano fest with genius recital

Former prodigy Tengku Irfan played masterfully in an eclectic programme at the recent Singapore International Piano Festival that included little-aired works. Photo: Chrisppics+

The cancellation of Argentine pianist Nelson Goerner’s recital last Thursday due to illness meant that young Malaysian pianist Tengku Irfan, 25, opened this year’s Singapore International Piano Festival.

Hailed as Malaysia’s Mozart, the former prodigy – who also composes and conducts – is the latest Malaysia-born pianist to perform in the festival since the late and lamented Dennis Lee in 2005.