Filipino pianist Darren Matias is an equally accomplished soloist and chamber musician. He started playing the piano at the age of 14 and has been a musician ever since. His American debut with the Charlotte Symphony was described by Florida Weekly as “the most dramatic and powerful performance of the season.” Further engagements include performances with the New York Summit Festival Orchestra, Philippine Philharmonic, FilHarmonika, Lynn Philharmonia, Florida Atlantic Symphony, Banda 31 Wind Symphony,and University of Santo Tomas Symphony. He recently won 1st prize at the Florida Atlantic University Concerto Competition, 1st prize at the Ultimate Pianist Competition in Manila, and further accomplishments in his duo work with Yasa. He appeared in the masterclasses of Gary Graffman, Leon Fleisher, Arie Vardi, Philippe Entremonte, and Phillip Evans. He also appeared as a guest artists in Alexander Toradze’s Piano Studio Concert. His creative pursuits has yielded into appearing as Mr. Liberace in the Kravis Center. Mr. Matias earned his Masters and Performance Certificate degrees at Lynn Conservatory of Music under Roberta Rust. He is currently pursuing his collaborative piano degree under the tutelage of Lisa Leonard.