Mário Laginha, the renowned Portuguese pianist and composer, is known for his versatility and jazz talent. With a career marked by outstanding collaborations, most notably with singer Maria João, Laginha combines influences from jazz, classical and traditional Portuguese music to create a unique and innovative style. His improvisational and composition skills, combined with a deep sense of melody and harmony, make him a prominent figure on the contemporary music scene, in Portugal and internationally.

We spoke with Mário Laginha about his piano recital, Chopin, which will take place on the 2nd of October at the Herdade da Malhadinha Nova.

1.How do you feel about playing in such a unique place, the Herdade da Malhadinha Nova? Does the landscape and the environment influence your performance in any way?
When the locations are special and the scenery and atmosphere are very important, the moments are more likely to be exceptional. This concert, with these musicians and these people, will never be repeated, that's for sure. All that's needed is for the audience to realise that the moment was unique, and that's what I hope for.

2. Is there anything particular about this concert compared to others you've done? Is there anything special the audience can expect?
This concert has a very unusual feature. The audience will be able to hear five pieces by Chopin, firstly all in their original version, and then in a free version from the world of jazz. I can assure you that it's very unlikely that you've ever attended a concert with such characteristics.

3. What were the criteria for choosing the repertoire for this concert? Are there any themes that are particularly in tune with the atmosphere of the estate?
This is a concert dedicated to the music of Chopin. His music is incredibly inspiring and can only dialogue well with a place as unique as Herdade da Malhadinha Nova.

4. As a composer, these days, where do you find your inspiration?
Right now, and always, in everything that surrounds me. From the music I like, to the people I like, to what I observe, to the beauty (and lack of it) that the world has to offer us.

5. This concert will have the peculiarity of taking place with an installation by Manuel Aires Mateus. How would you describe the relationship between music and other art forms, in this case architecture?
Our view always has an enormous influence on what we feel. I don't think it's possible for the act of making or listening to music not to be related to the space that surrounds us. In the case of a stage designed by Manuel Aires Mateus - an architect whom I have admired for many years - the enjoyment of music, both by the musicians and the audience, can only be generously enhanced.