February 20, 2025
Georgetown, TX – On Sunday, February 16, world-renowned pianist and University of Texas Butler School of Music professor Anton Nel delivered a breathtaking performance with the Central Texas Philharmonic in Georgetown. Nel, a celebrated figure in the classical music world, took the stage not once but twice, performing two demanding piano concertos in a single concert—a rare feat that left the audience in awe.
Anton Nel in rehearsal with Central Texas Philharmonic
The program began with Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 21 in C Major, K. 467, followed by Mendelssohn’s Concerto No. 1 in G Minor, Op. 25 after intermission. Performing multiple concertos in one evening is an extraordinary challenge, requiring immense technical skill and stamina. Yet, for Nel, this is not the first time he has undertaken such a Herculean task. Last year, he captivated 5,000 audience members over two nights with the Austin Symphony Orchestra, performing all five of Beethoven’s piano concertos.
Anton Nel rehearses Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 21 in C Major, K. 467 with the Central Texas Philharmonic
In an interview right before the rehearsal with the Central Texas Philharmonic, Nel shared his enthusiasm for the Austin area and its vibrant classical music community. “It’s amazing to have two orchestras I perform with just a short drive from my home,” he said. “The support from the community is truly inspiring.” He praised conductor Stefan Sanders for making the Central Texas Philharmonic such an incredible orchestra to work with. "It is shocking how good they have gotten with (Sanders) in such a short amount of time".
Anton Nel and conductor Stefan Sanders in rehearsal with Central Texas Philharmonic
The concert, held at the Klett Performing Arts Center, drew a packed house, proving that Georgetown’s classical music scene is thriving. Despite the venue’s distance from Austin’s traditional hubs like the Long Center or Bass Concert Hall, the energy in the room was palpable. As the orchestra took the stage at 4 p.m., the audience’s enthusiastic applause made it clear that the love for classical music knows no geographic bounds.
Anton Nel and conductor Stefan Sanders joke with the orchestra during rehearsal about the tempo
Despite his status as one of the preeminent pianists of our time, Nel remains remarkably humble and deeply committed to his second passion: teaching. As the holder of the Joe R. and Teresa Lozano Long Endowed Chair in Piano and Division Head for Keyboard Studies at the Butler School of Music, Nel balances his performance career with mentoring the next generation of pianists. Nel also spoke about his teaching studio at the Butler School of Music, expressing both pride and a touch of melancholy. “Only two of my students are graduating this year, which means I only have two spots available for next year,” he said. Reflecting on the recent auditions, he added, “How do you decide amongst all that talent?”
The concert concluded with multiple standing ovations, a testament to Nel’s artistry and the Central Texas Philharmonic’s performance. The orchestra’s next concert is scheduled for Sunday, March 9, at 4:00 p.m.
Anton Nel in rehearsal with Central Texas Philharmonic conductor Stefan Sanders