Here he talks with the Budapest Business Journal about the importance of music in life.

A widely recognized pianist of the Romantic repertoire, and recipient of the prestigious Steinway Aritst title, Farkas has won both the Junior Prima and Ferenc Liszt prizes, as well as numerous national and international competitions. He is a Doctor of Liberal Arts (an equivalent to a Ph.D.) and has been a professor at international universities. He is currently head of the keyboard and harp department at the academy, as well as its rector.

In addition to respecting tradition, Farkas also places great importance on renewal and professional excellence, as he promised in his application. He is optimistic about realizing his plans and counts on the support of the institution’s governing body and the assistance of sponsors to achieve those goals.

BBJ: Winning this title presupposes both domestic and international studies and experience. How did this artistic career actually begin?

Gábor Farkas: Seeing my persistent interest and diligence in learning the piano, my parents naturally supported me from a musical family in pursuing music. Thus, a straight path led to the Secondary School of Music in Miskolc and to the Liszt Academy. I completed my studies there as a student of Sándor Falvai and Attila Némethy, earning a diploma as a piano performer and teacher. During this time, I also had the opportunity to study at renowned international universities.

BBJ: Indeed, from 2017, you spent four years in Japan as a professor at the Tokyo College of Music. This must have been a formative period for you.

GF: My wife is Japanese. As the father of two talented sons, the years we spent in Japan played a defining role in our lives. It is no coincidence that we developed a strong affinity for Eastern culture. I am extremely impressed by the diligence and sense of responsibility toward work that Eastern people exhibit. In Japan, it is important to people that every minute counts.

BBJ: One of the most important elements of your application for the rector’s position is the promotion of openness toward East Asia. Why do you consider this goal so important?

GF: During my career as a performing artist, I have had the opportunity to give concerts in, among other countries, China and South Korea. I experienced firsthand the remarkable enthusiasm for classical music among the people living there. Young people begin learning music from as early as kindergarten. They experience the profound impact of music education on the soul and on fostering community life. It is truly remarkable how significant our Kodály method is in the lives of both children and older generations. Music permeates almost every moment of their days. During my masterclasses, I have met extraordinarily talented young people. We provide these students not only in their home countries but also at our institution, founded by Ferenc Liszt, with opportunities to carry our centuries-old musical tradition and educational system to the Eastern world

BBJ: Regarding this opening to the East, have any significant results been achieved with a view to the future?

GF: Yes, on March 24-25, the orchestra of the Beijing State Conservatory of Music will visit us. Linked to the other important element of my rectorial program, the importance of orchestral training, they will give a joint concert with Liszt Academy students on this occasion. It promises to be an exciting program, rich in musical experiences.

This article was first published in the Budapest Business Journal print issue of March 27, 2026.