The third season of Channel 4's beloved show, The Piano, is making a grand comeback with some fresh twists that music lovers won't want to miss. The first significant change is in the mentoring lineup. Renowned pianist Lang Lang, who enchanted audiences in the show's first two seasons, has bid adieu, leaving big shoes to fill due to his packed schedule of international performances.
Stepping into the spotlight as the new mentor is the charismatic Jon Batiste. Known for his vibrant energy and phenomenal versatility, Batiste has made waves with his Oscar and Grammy-winning work, most notably on Pixar's Soul, and charmed audiences as the former bandleader on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. Joining forces with returning mentor Mika and beloved host Claudia Winkleman, Batiste is set to bring a fresh vibe and perspective to the series.
Kicking off on April 13, 2025, at the cozy post-bake-off slot of 9 pm, the show amps up its adventurous spirit with performances at new and interesting locales. For the first time, the musical journey will include an airport episode at London Heathrow Terminal 5. This season's stops also feature bustling venues like London Liverpool Street, Brighton, Sheffield, and Newcastle Central, providing contestants with a diverse audience and unique performing experiences.
This season is not just about pianos; it's about people. With its seven-episode format, viewers can expect to be moved by the heartfelt personal stories and the eclectic range of musical styles that each contestant brings to the table. The stakes are high as Mika and Batiste will have the challenge of picking the cream of the crop to perform at the season’s climactic grand concert at The Glasshouse International Centre for Music in Gateshead.
Despite stepping down from the regular lineup, Lang Lang won't be disappearing entirely. He'll make a brief return for the highly anticipated 2024 Christmas special, adding a sprinkle of holiday magic that fans have come to cherish.
Claudia Winkleman expressed sheer delight over Batiste joining the ensemble, calling him a 'joy' to collaborate with. Meanwhile, Mika is thrilled about the evolving dynamic of the show, noting the growing awareness and excitement among participants about the judging process. For Batiste, the task of curating a memorable concert from the wide array of contestants is no small feat. He candidly remarked on the complexities and immense responsibility of shaping something that doesn’t just entertain, but also significantly impacts the performers' lives.
Apr, 14 2025