Henri de Quengo is a French pianist and composer, renowned primarily for his classical piano compositions, which have earned over four million streams worldwide. Born in 1991, his musical journey began at the age of 8 when he embarked on formal classical piano education following the French conservatory curriculum. In addition to mastering the piano, Henri got passionate about music theory, studying harmony and counterpoint. His compositional process often emerges from extensive improvisation sessions, drawing inspiration out of multiple composers from diverse periods and styles. Further enriching his musical expertise, Henri pursued advanced studies in musicology at the illustrious “Sorbonne Université” in Paris, France. This comprehensive blend of practical skills and scholarly inquiry imbues Henri’s compositions with depth and resonance, captivating audiences with their emotive power and timeless elegance.

1.When and how did you realize that your whole life would be linked to music?

It’s hard to pinpoint an exact moment as music always felt like a part of me. However, I clearly remember at around 7 years old, spending hours listening to a small radio my brother gave me and I started mixing songs in my head. I was captivated by the feeling of creating my own “music puzzles,” piecing together melodies and rhythms. That sense of discovery and creativity made me realize there was something special about music that I needed to explore further.

2.Which composer has most influenced your musical imagination?

As a child, I studied a lot of J.S. Bach. I remember being completely bored about it and I begging to play Chopin instead. Looking back, I realize both composers have deeply shaped my musical imagination (and J.S Bach is now the repertoire I play the most !). Then, as I explored more and more music, my influences expanded across various periods. If I had to choose one composer from each major era, I’d say Guillaume de Machaut, Josquin des Prez, Claudio Monteverdi, W.A. Mozart, Antonín Dvořák, and Arnold Schoenberg have all left a lasting mark on how I approach and think about music. They are, of course, super stars of their era but it’s impossible not to relate to their work.

3.What is your main creative motto?
If I like it, then at least one person does so it’s worth it.

4.What would you like to express during your performance atthe festival?What will your program consist of, and why this choice?

I aim to create a profound connection with the audience, especially given the intimate and charming atmosphere of the Théâtre de l’Ile Saint Louis. I wish to have a shared emotional experience between us. I will perform my own compositions, including several pieces I wrote some time ago (opus 1, opus 6…), along with selections from my latest album (opus 12), released in May 2024. Additionally, I plan to engage with the audience through small improvisations and share some unpublished, yet to be recorded, works.

5.What goals do you setfor yourself, and what projects do you have on the horizon?

I have many objectives, they are the driving force behind everything I do. Currently, I am pursuing a master’s degree in Music Management at Sorbonne Université to complete my understanding of the music industry. In the near future, I intend to keep growing as a musician as well as taking roles within organization such as managing a festival or an orchestra. I am also thinking of creating my own label. Finally, a lifelong dream of mine has been to write a symphony—a goal I set as a child and remains. I don’t know yet how this will shape together but I view it as a defining milestone in my musical journey.

6.How do you see the future of piano music?

Tough question ! With all the technology innovations we see growing, specifically with the gen-AI, the future of piano music feels somewhat uncertain. However, music has always been there to share emotions so I am quite confident that piano music future is to continue fulfilling this role. I dream of a world where more people play the piano, we need homes filled with pianos, and not electric but acoustic ones ! The human connection to music, especially through the piano, is something I believe will endure and thrive but for this we need to prioritize education and establish strong cultural policies that promote and support music education for all.


7.What does Paris representfor you? Do you have a special relationship with this city, and why did you accept the invitation to participate in the festival?

Paris means music to me. So many masterpieces were created here. It’s also the most beautiful city in the world, no contest. I am constantly amazed when walking or biking through its streets, always finding something new and wonderful to admire. I’m thrilled to participate in the first edition of this festival. The passion of all the musicians and organizers is truly inspiring, and I feel privileged to be part of this journey. I also adore the venue, the Théâtre de l’Île Saint-Louis, its intimate charm captures what is to me the essence of Paris. Thank you, I can’t wait for June !

Discover Piano Revenge Festival (buy Tickets here) and Henri’s Music: