Richard Clayderman Tickets

Short Biography

Richard Clayderman has done what virtually no other French act has ever done, establishing a truly international career as a bestselling recording artist and concert performer.

Born Philippe Pagès on December 28th, 1953 he encountered the piano early in his life, when his father, a piano teacher began to teach him how to play.  It is said at the age of six, Richard Clayderman could read music more adeptly than his native French.

In 1976 French Record producer Olivier Toussaint asked him to record a gently piano ballad for Paul De Senneville who had written it for his new born daughter.

This was the start of what has become an outstanding success story , and since then Richard Clayderman’s distinctive piano style has earned him superstar status all over the world. Over a hugely successful career spanning 30 years Richard Clayerman has, performed more than 1,900 concerts worldwide, recorded more than 1,200 titles, has sold more than 85 million albums, has won more than 340 gold and platinum records and has performed ‘Ballade pour Adeline’ more than 8,000 times to name but a few of his outstanding feats.

As a German journalist once described achievements “ he has arguably done more to popularize the piano around the world than anyone since Beethoven.”

In-depth Biography
With his lush and sophisticated instrumental approach to pop music, Richard Clayderman (born Philippe Pagès) is, according to The Guinness Book of World Records, "the most successful pianist in the world." Clayderman's albums routinely sell millions of copies and his concerts are quickly sold out. In a review of his 1985 Carnegie Hall concert, Variety wrote, "(Clayderman's) main appeal lies in his youth and boyish good looks...coupled with his gentlemanly charm and his thick French accent, they promise to rope in the romantically inclined middle-aged Yank ladies who cotton to this ilk of soothing entertainment." Nancy Reagan referred to Clayderman as "the prince of romance." Instructed in classical piano by his father, Clayderman enrolled in the Paris Conservatory of Music at the age of 12. Four years later, he placed first in a piano competition at the school. Despite his classical background, Clayderman opted for popular music when he launched his professional career. A tour as opening act for French rock musician Johnny Hallyday introduced him to an international following. Clayderman's debut album, Ballade Pour Adeline, recorded at the urging of producers and composers Oliver Toussaint and Paul de Senneville in 1977, sold more than 20 million copies and was distributed in 38 countries. Clayderman, who took his stage name from his Swedish grandmother, has continued to tour throughout the world to enthusiastic audiences. A live concert broadcast on Chinese television in 1987 attracted more than 800 million viewers. ~ Craig Harris, Rovi