Retired Opera Singer Celebrates Reunion with Former Student Following His Global Success
90-year-old retired opera singer, Ruth Winter, was joyfully reunited with her former student, Rhys Concessao, who has achieved global success as a pianist at just 21 years-old.
The event took place last week at Chorleywood Manor Care Home, where Ruth now resides.
Rhys made a special journey from Russia to visit his former singing teacher, to perform a moving piano recital at the care home.
Rhys, who began taking singing lessons with Ruth at the age of ten, credits her and her late husband, pianist John Winter, with profoundly shaping his musical journey.
John, who was a strong believer in Rhys’s potential, would listen to Rhys’s piano repertoire after each lesson, providing insightful feedback and suggesting new pianists and challenging pieces to explore.
Rhys fondly remembers the special bond they shared. “John and Ruth’s support was incredible,” he says.
For every birthday and Christmas, John and Ruth would thoughtfully send Rhys a carefully selected CD, often personally chosen by John, accompanied by a thoughtful message.
John and Ruth have also attended many of Rhys’ concerts in the UK, including several that marked significant milestones in his musical career.
Rhys continued: “They always encouraged me to grow, whether through new music suggestions or personal gifts like CDs chosen with such care. Their warmth and support gave me the confidence to pursue my dreams.”
Now, at 21, Rhys studies at the Tchaikovsky Conservatory in Moscow under the esteemed Professor Eliso Virsaladze and has performed across America, India, and Europe.
The reunion at Chorleywood Manor Care Home was beautifully highlighted by the moving piano performance from Rhys, evoking a deep sense of fulfilment for both teacher and student.
The emotional performance touched not only the staff and residents of the luxury care home but brought many to tears.
“John would have been so proud,” Ruth reflected, visibly moved by Rhys’s achievements.
She continued: “Seeing his success is a beautiful reminder of the lasting impact we hoped to have on our students.”
Rhys plans to visit Ruth and all the staff at Chorleywood Manor Care Home, in Chorleywood, again soon.
