PM's note for piano contest with worldwide appeal

Sir Keir Starmer played the flute, violin and piano as a child

Sir Keir Starmer has voiced support for a prestigious Yorkshire piano contest as he revealed music had given him the "confidence to perform".

A total of 24 pianists from 10 different countries will compete in the Leeds International Piano Competition over the next 11 days.

The Prime Minister, who played the flute, piano and violin as a child, shared a written message which features in the event's programme.

It said: "The Leeds combines two of my greatest loves: the city that absolutely formed me when I came here as a student; and the joy and discovery of music that changed my life."

The competition takes place over the next 11 days

He added: "Everyone involved in this competition will know what I mean when I talk about that experience of being truly moved by a piece of music - of losing yourself and finding something new in the space that artistry creates.

"The piano does that like no other instrument. Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 5, in particular, never fails to take me to that state.

"Although that may also be because my wife chose it as her entrance music for our wedding!"

The competition, which had an international first round, will see The Great Hall at the University of Leeds used for the second round and semi-final before the final takes place at Bradford's St George's Hall.

Starmer - who is married to Victoria - graduated from the University of Leeds in 1985 with a degree in law.

He was appointed a Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath in the 2014 New Year Honours for services to law and criminal justice.

'Culture and creativity'

Starmer said in his message: "I was fortunate to grow up studying music, learning the flute at the Guildhall in London.

"It offered me incredible opportunities, gave me the confidence to perform and taught me so much about culture and creativity.

"Above all, it made me believe that music was something for me. I want that same belief for everyone."

Fiona Sinclair, chief executive officer of the Leeds International Piano Competition, said: "Leeds has truly come alive with the sound of pianos over the last few weeks with our innovative Piano Trail Festival, and with the competition now under way that will only increase.

"I wish all our competitors the best of luck and I can't wait to see them perform over the next 11 days."

The Piano Trail Festival, hosted in Leeds and Bradford, has transformed public spaces into cultural hubs with the help of public piano installations and more.

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