He could be performing at prestigious concerts in London or composing in Milan, but for pianist Stephen Cassomenos Melbourne is where he wants to forge his future.

The highly sought after pianist, conductor and composer will for the first time in June unveil four of his own new works at fortyfive downstairs in Flinders Lane.

“In my mind the most interesting opportunity lies here in Melbourne,” he says.

“It seems that the possibilities are limitless for growth in the area of classical music, as young Melbournians increasingly realise how fascinating the repertoire is, and how exciting the performances can be. I am really committed to staying here and continuing to make contributions to the cultural fabric.”

At just 24, Cassomenos is an internationally respected figure, renowned for his repertoire.

His 2007 piano performance in London was described by influential English critic John Amis as, “alive, passionate, and dramatic… as if the pianist’s life depended on it. This was a prodigious London debut by a formidable talent.”

In a series of performances at fortyfive downstairs, Cassomenos will share his passion for Prokofiev’s final four sonatas, including the three epic War Sonatas, in addition to his original pieces.

He will also celebrate two important anniversaries, with the inclusion of major works of Chopin in every concert, and with the placement of his personal Schumann favourites at both top and tail of the series.

Interesting is the inspiration behind the first of his new pieces-Fantasy: Pianist Saves The World.

Cassomenos based the concept on a previous piece he had written on water shortage in the third world, which was premiered at the opening of a World Vision Art exhibition in 2007.

“The subtitle of the fantasy is a reference to my own fantasy, that a pianist could solve the world’s problems, by writing and performing music about them,” he points out. In addition to his solo performances, Cassomenos is involved in several other musical projects.

He was recently appointed Conductor of the Percy Grainger Youth Orchestra, as part of the Saturday Music Program offered by Melbourne Youth Music.

He was also named Composer-in-Residence for Creative Universe’s 2010 Creative Innovation Conference, at Melbourne Recital Centre in September.

The young pianist and composer will also take on the role as Guest Artistic Director of Piano Landmarks, a day long festival of piano music, August 21 at the Australian National Academy of Music.

Cassomenos, who previously performed with International Chamber Music Competition prize winning group, The Yarra Trio says that they are on hold for a short while he, “focuses on other endeavours.”

With several composer invitations of late, one may wonder if this will be his focus.

“I enjoy making music, whether I’m writing it, or playing it, or standing to face an orchestra. I will follow my career path wherever it takes me.”