ASMF & Jan Lisiecki

We are set to hear a sequence of Beethoven piano concertos, works that track the composer’s shift from the classical structures of the late eighteenth century toward a more expansive, personal style. You will hear a constant dialogue between the soloist and the ensemble, where the piano moves from being an integrated voice to a bold leader of the musical narrative. Listen for the distinct rhythmic drive in the faster movements and the sudden shifts in mood that define these pieces. The evening is built around the contrast between technical precision and deep melodic lyricism, showcasing how the concerto form evolved during this era. While the specific concertos are not yet confirmed, the selection will likely offer a broad view of the composer's development, moving from youthful energy to the grander, more heroic scale of his later orchestral writing. The interaction between the pianist and the strings is the central focus of this programme.

The Academy of St Martin in the Fields is a renowned chamber orchestra based in London, celebrated for its refined sound and prolific recording history. They are joined by the pianist Jan Lisiecki, who has established a significant international career for his insightful interpretations of the core piano repertoire. The ensemble is known for its conductorless tradition and its ability to achieve a cohesive, chamber-like intimacy even in large-scale works. They bring a reputation for clarity and technical excellence to this collaboration, maintaining a busy schedule of performances both at home and on global stages.

This performance takes place at the Academy of St Martin in the Fields church in London, the ensemble's historic namesake venue. The setting provides a resonant acoustic well-suited to the scale of Beethoven’s piano concertos. The total running time has not been specified for this event. As a concert of standard orchestral repertoire, it is a suitable choice if you are new to classical music or if you appreciate the specific history of this London landmark. There is no specific dress code for the evening, and we suggest following the standard convention for central London evening concerts.