Been my dream for long: Portuguese pianist after his debut India recital

PANAJI: It was on October 21, 1961, that the Portuguese pianist Artur Pizarro's teacher Evaristo Campos Coelho performed in Goa, carrying back tales of a culturally-rich land of music, art and architecture. These tales would later be narrated to a young Arturo, but these images of 'India Portuguesa' remain etched in his mind even six decades later.
"I continue to hold the photographs from that time dearly, as I remember him always speaking so fondly of the experience of being able to come here," Pizarro told TOI.
Goa continues to hold a special place in the Portuguese psyche, said the pianist, whose recital in Panaji on Sunday was his first in India. "It has been my dream for a very long time, and I am very happy to have the opportunity to be here. I have been enjoying the sights, and it's been beautiful," he said.
Pizarro, who had his first performance at the age of three, was performing at the Monte Music Festival in Panaji, followed by a concert on Sunday in Mumbai. He was invited by Fundacao Oriente.
Pizarro always knew he had fans in India, but didn't anticipate the response to his concert in Panaji. The Maquinez Palace auditorium was packed, and several music-lovers stood in the aisles to witness his music.
Speaking on the importance of having cultural events like the Monte Music Festival to strengthen Indo-Portuguese ties, he said that more such events should be held. "Goa has historical ties with Portugal, and there is mutual admiration, respect, and fascination with each other's cultures, so having this platform, which brings everybody together with happiness and wonder, is perfect. This is how we appreciate each other and exchange ideas," he said.