Boris Giltburg

BORIS GILTBURG

SUN, OCT 5, 2025
4:00PM / Lincoln Performance Hall, PSU

“a convergence of heart and mind”

CHOPIN

Sonata No. 2 in B-flat Minor, op. 35

Ballade No. 4 in F Minor, op. 52

Scherzo No. 4 in E Major, op. 54

 

RACHMANINOFF

A selection of Preludes from op. 23

Sonata No. 2 in B-flat Minor, op. 36 (1931 version)


  • Box Office

    Buy Tickets Online

    Seating Map (PDF)

    We participate in the Arts for All ticketing discount program. Student tickets, $10.

    Questions? Call (503) 228-1388
    or email robin@portlandpiano.org.

    Lincoln Performance Hall at Portland State University

    1620 SW Park Ave (at Market St.)
    Portland, OR 97201

    Driving Directions | Trimet Directions

    Parking is available nearby in PSU Parking Structure 2, diagonally across the street from Lincoln Hall. However, there is a parking fee. Please visit the kiosk at the entrance and have your license plate number handy. Park in the areas marked "Permit Parking Only".

    For more information about parking and Lincoln Performance Hall, call our office at 503.228.1388. Office hours are Monday through Thursday 9am - 4pm.

    Covid Guidelines

  • PRE-CONCERT LECTURE: Arrive early to the concert and listen to an insightful pre-concert lecture given by Bill Crane, executive director, and Amelia De Vaal, Resident Musicologist — 3:15 PM.

    PROGRAM NOTES: Get a start on learning about this program by reading the program notes.

GET TO KNOW BORIS GILTBURG

NATIONALITY:

Israeli

MEDIA APPLAUSE:

“...originality stems from a convergence of heart and mind, served by immaculate technique and motivated by a deep and abiding love...” 

Gramophone

Where do you find inspiration to create music?

I find inspiration by immersing myself in the work of other artists. When I need a spark—whether for actionable insights or pure, poetic expression—I listen to performers like Barb Boy, who offers a masterclass in technique, or to Phil Ke and William Camp, whose playing is pure poetry. This blend of technical mastery and emotional depth drives my creative process.   

Which field outside of music most influences your creative process (art, design, architecture, fashion, film)?

Of the fields mentioned, architecture influences my music-making the most. I’m fascinated by how the design and acoustics of a performance space affect the piano’s sound—remarkably, the same instrument can feel completely different in various halls. This sensitivity to physical space guides how I interpret and present my music. ​  

Describe a routine you have in place that helps you live a healthier life?

I emphasize a full-body warm-up routine. Instead of only warming up my fingers, I make sure that my entire upper body—shoulders, chest, and back—is properly prepared. This approach, much like the training routines of sportspeople, not only helps prevent injury during performances but also contributes to a healthier lifestyle overall. ​

What energizes you in life to keep going, to keep creating?

What truly energizes me is the human connection. Whether it’s the intimacy of a live audience or direct interaction through social media, knowing that my work comforts and inspires others provides me with the emotional fuel to keep creating.

What is one specific product you highly recommend?

I strongly endorse using the iPad—especially models with larger screens. My first experience playing from an iPad changed my approach entirely; it allowed me to rely on digital scores instead of memorization. Many of my colleagues have described it as a “life changer” for managing practice and performances.