Elements of a brilliant performance

[catherinezng]

I've been analyzing my reactions to different piano concerts lately. Despite my efforts to engross myself completely, some performances just stand out as being more brilliant or more boring than others.

So here's to this discussion: In your opinion, what are the essential elements of a brilliant performance?

[teran]

Something with your own personal accent.

It doesn't matter if it doesn't please everyone, trying to please everyone is the first step towards mediocrity.

[j_menz]

In your opinion, what are the essential elements of a brilliant performance?

The people around me not snoring, coughing up lungs, chatting amongst themselves, singing along or rustling whatever they have to hand.

From the pianist? Something they want to convery about the music rather than a performance wholly dedicated to saying something about their abilities.