Jean-Paul Sevilla (born in 1934 in French Algeria) is a French pianist and musician of Spanish descent.
He gave his first recital at the age of nine. At the age of fourteen he entered the Paris National Conservatory of Music, where he obtained the First Prize in piano, as well as a unanimous Prix d'honneur (which has not been awarded since). He also received the First Prize in chamber music.
In 1959 he was awarded unanimously the First Prize at the Geneva International Competition.
His numerous tours, as soloist and chamber musician, have taken him from Europe and Africa to both Americas and Asia.
Now a Canadian citizen as well, for more than twenty years Jean-Paul Sevilla has lived in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada where he is now Professor Emeritus of the University of Ottawa, after being a full professor of piano, chamber music and piano literature at the University of Ottawa, while continuing his successful career as a concert pianist, lecturer and "clinician". He continues on numerous occasions to teach Opera at the University. Jean-Paul’s presence in Ottawa has enriched the cultural and musical life of the city.
A gifted and enthusiastic teacher, he has taught and has been the mentor of talented young artists, many of whom have won top awards at different international competitions, including world-renowned pianist Angela Hewitt, and chamber musician and professor of music, Andrew Tunis. He has given time and effort to promote music in Canada through the Canadian Music Competition and the Registered Music Teachers’ Association. He has also given thoughtful lessons to adult amateurs who remain his great friend. His musical and intellectual prowess has made him in high demand for courses, lectures and master classes alike. In addition, he has had many articles published in several musical journals in the United States. He is a noted expert on Fauré and Ravel whose complete works he has often performed .
In 1986 he was guest professor at the Musashino University in Tokyo, and has since returned every year to Asia, adding Korea, the Philippines, Indonesia and Hong Kong to his tours. In the coming year 2007, he will give concerts, teach and give master classes in Australia. [1][2]