Norwich Arts Centre, 7 May 2026
London-based BELLE CHEN is a pianist and composer whose unique approach in blurring the lines between classical and electronic music has been recognised by industry heavyweights. Described as an artist that is “original and provocative… feels like the sense of discovery” (Brian Eno), Chen is currently performing music from her latest album ‘Ravel In The Forest’ (#7 UK Specialist Classical chart, #15 ARIA Classical chart); an evocative celebration of the forests’ colourful ecosystems and the humankind’s distinctive capacity to imagine.
What sets Chen’s music apart is a quirky yet tender approach to musical storytelling. With influences of Ryuichi Sakamoto and Joe Hisaishi’s melodic sweetness shining through, Chen also blends sonically bold synth explorations and free flowing improvisations that could feel equally at home on jazz or experimental stages.
Chen’s transient childhood in Taiwan and Australia has shaped her long-term relationship with music. A mesh-mash of eastern and western cultures have set Chen up on a continual search for her own identity and belonging, a journey she lives openly through her music.
Hovering between the piano and an array of keyboards, Chen has performed her show on stages such as the EartH Theatre for EFG London Jazz Festival, Kings Place Hall One, Polygon LIVE, Royal Albert Hall’s Steinway Series, LSO St. Luke’s,, Shambala Festival, OzAsia Festival, Latitude Festival, Melbourne Recital Centre, Cafe OTO and Piano City Milano.
With performances described as having “beautiful pieces and flawless execution… a delightful surprise for all of your senses” (Headphone Commute) and “an absorbing performance by a unique musical innovator” (Limelight Magazine), her appearances are not to be missed.
“Belle Chen is a tour de force, blending classical mastery with modern innovation.” – Richard Wilkinson-Smith, LeftLion
Making her debut at the EFG London Jazz Festival in 2024, Chen’s releases have gathered Australian Music Prize nominations and amassed over 50 million streams to-date.
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