A conversation with Seattle
On Sunday evening, pianist and harpsichordist Byron Schenkman cut the ribbon on a brand-new chamber music series with a performance of three sparkling piano quartets by Beethoven, written when the composer was only fourteen. Continue reading Byron Schenkman & Friends Offer a Fascinating Glimpse Into Beethoven’s Early Years
This concert nearly didn’t happen as one of the pianists became sick recently and couldn’t travel, but Norway’s Inger-Kristine Riber made herculean efforts and found a colleague, Italy’s Alessandra Giorgia Brustia, able to join her both for practice time and to come to the U.S for a mini-tour. Continue reading Italy Lends a Hand for “Mostly Nordic” Celebration of Norwegian Chamber Music
As in any typical piano recital, technical virtuosity and emotional expression were certainly on display.
However, this concert showcased a wider spectrum of Valdes’ talents as a performer, sending the pianist on a tour of her instrument — reaching inside the case to pluck the strings, creating sheets of sound by slamming her forearm on the keys, and playing alongside pre-recorded piano sounds. Continue reading A Piano Recital For the 21st Century With Cristina Valdes
Classical pianist and Radiohead fanatic Christopher O’Riley kicked off his Seattle visit with a concert of rock hits, all arranged for solo piano by O’Riley himself. Continue reading Pianist Christopher O’Riley Performs Radiohead and Nirvana
French-born pianist Hélène Grimaud returned to Seattle last Thursday for a solo performance at the University of Washington. Her thrilling recital featured works by Mozart, Berg, Bartók, and Liszt. Continue reading Pianist Hélène Grimaud’s Dramatic Return to UW’s Meany Hall
In each generation there seems to rise one person who is a towering figure at performing and interpreting Bach on the piano. In the 1980s, it was Andras Schiff. Today it is Angela Hewitt, who brought her artistry and insight to the UW President’s Piano Series Tuesday night at Meany Hall. Continue reading At UW President’s Piano Series, Angela Hewitt Brings Sexy Bach
The Seattle Symphony performs works by French composers Dutilleux, Dukas, and Ravel tonight at Benaroya Hall. Also on the program is a U.S. premiere by Macedonian composer Damir Imeri. Featured performers are guest conductor Susanna Mälkki and pianist Simon Trpčeski. Continue reading A Bouquet of French Favorites at the Seattle Symphony