Even before he had finished his studies, Eleonore Büning had lauded Igor Levit in the FAZ : “Here is one of the greatest pianists of this century”. His interpretation of the Waldstein Sonata was “a great eruption”. “Levit is a person with both a day and a night side… he cannot rest, he is a walking two man play and one can never be sure if it’s a comedy or a tragedy. He is really only serious when it comes to music”, claims the normally harsh critic. A television programme has been dedicated to the young pianist, who so far is yet to sign a recording contract. Alas, we have no choice but to hear him play live on stage here today!

Igor Levit Piano

Ludwig van Beethoven
Piano Sonata in G Major, Op. 79

Dmitri Shostakovich
24 Preludes, Op. 34

Ludwig van Beethoven
Piano Sonata in C Major, Op. 53 “Waldstein”

Rising Star, nominated by the Cologne Philharmonic Orchestra and the Festspielhaus Baden-Baden. The Festspielhaus is a member of the European Concert Hall Organisation, which initiates projects such as “Rising Stars”. www.concerthallorganisation.eu.

Following the concert a discussion with the artist will take place in the foyer.

Finishing time approx.: 12.15 pm