EMRE ÖZTEK
pianist
BIOGRAPHY
Emre Oztek began studying the piano at the age of eleven in his native Cyprus. Despite his relatively late introduction to the instrument, his quick progress led to his first public performance just two years later. At sixteen, he was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship to study Environmental Science at Grinnell College in Iowa, USA. While pursuing his academic degree, he continued his piano studies with Dr. Patrice Ewoldt and Dr. Eugene Gaub, earning both the Hill Solo Award and the Curd Outstanding Instrumentalist Award.
In 2005, having received a full scholarship, he transferred to the Lawrence University Conservatory of Music to devote himself fully to piano performance. There, he studied with internationally renowned pianist Michael Kim and won numerous prizes, including the prestigious Commencement Concert Competition. In recognition of his artistic achievements, Grinnell College invited him to return as a guest recitalist in 2006, where he received special commendation from President Russell K. Osgood.
Following his graduation with high honours on the Dean's List, Oztek moved to London to pursue a Master's degree in Piano Performance at Trinity Laban Conservatoire under Professor Mikhail Kazakevich, where he was awarded the Alfred Kitchin and Beverley Creed Scholarships.
Since completing his postgraduate studies in 2010, Oztek has established an active career as both a soloist and chamber musician. Between 2014 and 2015, he performed extensively with the piano duo Con Fuoco alongside pianist Harriet Stubbs, appearing at venues throughout the United Kingdom and Europe. Highlights included a recital at Bellapais Abbey in Cyprus attended by Turkish Cypriot President Mustafa Akıncı. In 2015, he co-founded The Larkhall Trio with violinist Roberta Cannas and cellist Oda Matilda Lundin, touring extensively throughout the United Kingdom.
Since 2021, Oztek has collaborated regularly with fellow pianist and Steinway Artist Chisato Kusunoki, presenting recital tours in London, Brighton and Cyprus. In 2026, he also began collaborating with violinist Sophia Bartlette.
Alongside his performing career, Oztek is also a sought-after piano teacher. He is a member of the piano faculty at Dulwich College in London and Langley Park School for Boys in Beckenham.