Nicholas McCarthy announced to guest judge Translink’s GRAND Pianist Final
Translink has announced Nicholas McCarthy - a phenomenal one-handed pianist - as the special guest judge for the GRAND Final of this year’s Grand Pianist competition, taking place on Thursday 6th November at Belfast Grand Central Station.
Translink has announced internationally acclaimed pianist Nicholas McCarthy as the special guest judge for the GRAND Final of this year’s Grand Pianist competition, taking place this November at Belfast Grand Central Station.
Born without his right hand, Nicholas has defied expectations to become one of the world’s most inspiring classical musicians, performing to sold-out audiences around the globe and sharing a message of inclusion, resilience and the transformative power of music.
Speaking ahead of his visit to Belfast, Nicholas said:
“It’s a real privilege to be part of a competition that celebrates creativity and connection in such a unique way. Music has an incredible ability to bring people together, and I love that The GRAND Pianist gives everyone – no matter their background or ability – the chance to share their story through music. I can’t wait to experience the local talent and see how each performer brings their individuality to the piano.”
Nicholas will join Head Judge Matthew Owens, renowned conductor, composer and pianist, to help crown this year’s Grand Pianist winner, following a series of regional heats taking place in stations across Northern Ireland this autumn.
Based in Colchester, Essex, Nicholas - who became the first one-handed pianist to graduate from London’s Royal College of Music - has a long-standing connection with Northern Ireland. He has previously performed with the Ulster Orchestra and delivered keynote talks and workshops for young musicians in Belfast, including as part of the Belfast International Arts Festival.
His return for The GRAND Pianist Final marks a fitting reunion with local audiences who have long admired Nicholas’ warmth and artistry. He said he’s looking for performances that move him emotionally as well as musically.
“I’m not just looking for technical perfection. I want to hear someone communicate through their music – to make me sit up and pay attention, to feel something real.”
Now in its second year, The GRAND Pianist celebrates Belfast Grand Central Station’s first anniversary, transforming stations into live stages and bringing communities together through music.
Open to amateur pianists of all ages and abilities, the competition has seen a concert piano travel across Northern Ireland to regional heats in Lanyon Place, Derry~Londonderry, Bangor, Coleraine and Newry, before culminating in the GRAND Final in Belfast.
Chris Conway, Translink Group Chief Executive, commented:
“We’re delighted to welcome Nicholas McCarthy as this year’s guest judge. His story and artistry embody the spirit of connection and celebration what The GRAND Pianist is all about.
“Nicholas has a genuine connection to Northern Ireland, having inspired audiences here in the past through his performances and workshops, and we’re thrilled to see him return to Belfast Grand Central Station for this special final.”
Returning to lead the judging panel, Matthew Owens added:
“The regional heats have once again showcased an incredible range of local talent. It’s fantastic to have Nicholas join us for the final, and together we look forward to discovering this year’s standout performers.”
The GRAND Final will take place in Belfast Grand Central Station on Thursday 6th November from 16:30 – 18:30, where two pianists will be crowned the Grand Pianist 2025. Members of the public are very welcome to come along and watch the performances live in the station.
Download the Translink Journey planner app for your next journey by bus and train. To follow all the latest competition updates, visit translink.co.uk/grand-pianist or follow Translink on social media using #GrandPianist2025.