Receiving the Springboard Award gifted by The Edgar Family – Mentored by 2007 Arts Foundation Te Tumu Toi Laureate Michael Houstoun CNZM

Liam Wooding is a pianist known for his “chameleon-like ability with keyboard colour”(Radio New Zealand) and celebrated for his innovative and eclectic performances. After completing his piano studies at the Australian National Academy of Music and furthering his education in the United States as a Fulbright Scholar, Liam now performs and teaches all across Australia and his native Aotearoa New Zealand.

Cultivating a dynamic and diverse musical practice, Liam’s work encompasses both solo piano and chamber music. He finds great pleasure in exploring the piano repertoire and curating recitals that evoke feeling and inspire ideas. His 2021 recital program Reflections and Connections, broadcast on Radio New Zealand, was praised by Elizabeth Kerr for its “flowing pianism and thoughtful curation” (Five Lines).

In recent years, Liam has collaborated with distinguished artists such as percussionist Steven Schick, soprano Stephanie Acraman, violinist Akiko Miazawa, and his own chamber ensemble, Morton Trio. Albums featuring Acraman (The Complete Cabaret Songs of William Bolcom) and Morton Trio have garnered attention from leading outlets, including Limelight Magazine, The Listener and MusicWeb International.

A passionate advocate for contemporary music, Liam has championed works by composers such as John Psathas, Stuart Greenbaum, Lachlan Skipworth, and Janet Jennings. He performed the memorable six-piano epic Voices at the End by John Psathas in 2021 and that same year premiered Stuart Greenbaum’s piano sonata Journey into Darkness. More recently, he premiered Lachlan Skipworth’s Cello Sonata and will soon debut a set of preludes celebrating the Māori occasion of Matariki, composed by David Hamilton.

Panel statement: “Liam is a generous artist who is already distinguishing himself as an engaging performer of note. He is committed to contributing to his community, both by artistically engaging in the regions, but also through working with local composers and being fearless in the presentation of new music. This award will offer Liam the opportunity to build upon the momentum he has developed through years of study into future creative practice.”