Marc-André Hamelin in Recital

Heavyweights of the piano

Canadian pianist Marc-André Hamelin is one of the world's most accomplished pianists: 'right now there is no one like him,’ says The New Yorker. In his first-ever solo recital in Sydney he takes on two of the biggest sonatas in the repertoire – the might of Rachmaninov’s Second Piano Sonata and the massive scope of Beethoven’s Piano Sonata No.29 – in a concert that is a showcase of undisputed heavyweights of the piano. 

Beethoven’s Hammerklavier, as it’s known, opens brightly, with big, satisfying major chords. It’s the longest piano sonata that Beethoven wrote, and a huge test for the performer, who must capture its deeply personal moments of introspection and bright extroversion with equal conviction. If Hammerklavier is triumphant, Rachmaninov’s Second Piano Sonata is intense and moody – a thrilling emotional wrestling match. And music by Medtner, a contemporary of Rachmaninov, rounds out a powerful concert.

Hamelin is at the height of his powers, and his debut Sydney recital is an absolute must for piano lovers.

Please note, this performance will only feature Marc-André Hamelin. Musicians of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra will not perform.

• Program

  Beethoven

  Piano Sonata No.29, Hammerklavier

  Medtner

  Improvisation, Op.31 No.1

  Medtner

  Danza Festiva, Op.38 No.3

  Rachmaninov

  Études-tableaux, Op.39 No.5

  Rachmaninov

  Piano Sonata No.2

• Artists

  Marc-André Hamelin

  Piano