Pianist eager to make classical music concerts fresh and engaging

Pianist Conrad Tao has played in top concert halls from an early age but after the release of his latest album, he chose to perform for a casual crowd in a crypt under a New York church.

The 21-year-old, who has won some of classical music's most prestigious awards, says he is constantly on the lookout for potential new concert venues, from practice rooms to disused restaurants, and has previously incorporated abstract video into performances.

Tao's goal is to make concerts engaging and fresh - qualities he believes that much of the classical-music establishment, despite its persistent complaints about declining attendance, has ignored.