ASMF & Jan Lisiecki

For this performance, you will hear a selection of Beethoven’s piano concertos, works that sit at the very heart of the nineteenth-century keyboard repertoire. These pieces represent a profound shift in the relationship between the soloist and the orchestra, moving from the refined elegance of the late classical era toward the more turbulent and expressive demands of the early romantic period. As you listen, we suggest paying close attention to the intricate dialogue between the pianist and the ensemble; the concertos are defined by moments of sudden contrast, where delicate, lyrical passages are met with assertive orchestral responses. The evening is shaped by the technical brilliance required of the soloist, yet it remains a deeply collaborative experience. While the specific number or sequence of the concertos being performed has not been detailed, the programme provides a comprehensive look at the composer’s development of the form and his ability to push the boundaries of the instruments available to him at the time.

The Academy of St Martin in the Fields is joined by pianist Jan Lisiecki for this performance. Based in London, the ensemble is internationally recognised for its refined sound and prolific recording history, specialising in a wide-ranging repertoire from the baroque to the modern day. Jan Lisiecki is known for a mature and thoughtful approach to the piano, frequently appearing with the world’s leading orchestras. Together, they bring a polished, chamber-like focus to these large-scale works, reflecting the ensemble’s long-standing reputation for precision and musical clarity.

This performance takes place at the Academy of St Martin in the Fields in London on 27 August 2027. The venue provides an intimate setting for orchestral music, though the lack of a specified finish time or interval structure suggests a flexible evening. It is well-suited if you are a first-time visitor to a classical concert, as the programme focuses on familiar and melodic repertoire. There is no specific dress code for this event, and the performance is presented in a concert format without the need for surtitles or translation.