About the Foundation
The Theme & Variations Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to assisting exceptionally talented young Australian pianists to reach their potential.
Vale Ara Vartoukian OAM
We are deeply saddened at the passing of our dearest friend, Ara Vartoukian OAM.
In losing Ara, we have lost a gentle man with the biggest, kindest, most generous heart. Ara has always given his whole self to those around him, wanting everyone to share what he had to give.
His generosity to our next generation of musicians has been inspirational. It has been such an honour to be by his side, and by Nyree’s side, as together they inspire these younger pianists to have the confidence and joy in performing, to help them on their way.
Ara’s professional passions were always twofold. He wanted pianists, both professionals and young pianists, to be the best they could be, and he wanted the pianos he worked on to be the best they could be.
He was a world-renowned piano technician but relatively few people were fortunate enough to experience his outstanding personal qualities. Those, more than his public persona, are the legacy he leaves to those who knew him well and loved him.
2023 Award winners
The Theme & Variations Foundation is pleased to announce its 2023 award recipients. This year we have decided to give one award to Anna Gao from Victoria and one award to Michael de Huy from NSW to assist them in their studies.
Each year, the Foundation seeks to assist young Australian pianists in their pursuits. We are always delighted to find, as we have this year, exciting, fresh talent coming through our teaching institutions.