Elan Sicroff – piano

Elan Sicroff has specialized in the music of Thomas de Hartmann since the 1970s.  He first became aware of the composer at a school in England, dedicated to the practical teachings of the philosopher George Ivanovitch Gurdjieff. There he has was introduced to the sacred and folk music of the East that Gurdjieff and de Hartmann transcribed for piano in an unusual collaboration.

From 1975-9 he worked with Mme. Olga de Hartmann, widow of the composer, who introduced him to de Hartmann’s music written in the classical idiom. She provided numerous opportunities for him to perform de Hartmann’s piano and chamber works. Since 2006 he has been Artistic Director and pianist for the Thomas de Hartmann Project, which aims to bring the composer’s music back to public awareness.

From 2011-16 he worked on a recording project in the Netherlands, resulting in the release of 5 CDs by Nimbus Alliance Records (UK) in April 2021 of the music for solo piano, voice and chamber ensemble. Presently, Elan is promoting de Hartmann’s music with solo and chamber music recitals, as well as lectures and workshops in conservatories and universities.

In addition, he is engaged in editing and preparing a critical edition of de Hartmann’s sheet music — all of which is presently out of print — which will be published by Nimbus Records beginning this Fall. The first release will include a selection of works for solo piano, voice, and chamber ensemble.