Details

A visionary pianist’s thoughtful interpretation of Schubert’s piano sonatas.

Paul Lewis is internationally regarded as one of the leading musicians of his generation. His cycles of piano works by Beethoven and Schubert are renowned, affirming his reputation as one of the world’s foremost interpreters of the central European classical repertoire.

Lewis is no stranger to performances with leading orchestras including the Berlin Philharmonic, London Symphony, New York Philharmonic, LA Philharmonic, Royal Concertgebouw and Leipzig Gewandhaus orchestras. He is also no stranger to playing the Steinway pianos in the Centre’s very own Elisabeth Murdoch Hall to adoring Australian audiences over the last decade.

About the concert

On his eighth return to the Centre in 2023, Paul Lewis performs a survey of Schubert’s piano sonatas, performed over two evenings showcasing ‘both explosiveness of drama and the kind of melting expressiveness which draws you in, without losing that inner core of strength which raises Schubert from genteel picturesqueness into an artist of granite stature’ (Music Web International).

On Friday 3 February, Lewis performs Schubert’s piano sonatas No.7, No.14 and No.17.
On Tuesday 7 February, Lewis performs Schubert’s piano sonatas No.13, No.15 and No.16.

Paul Lewis’ sincerity and musical depth has won fans and accolades across the globe, and his survey of Schubert’s piano sonatas will be no different.

Praise for Paul Lewis

‘There are many prized recordings of the Beethoven sonatas from past masters and current artists. But if I had to recommend a single complete set, I would suggest Mr. Lewis’s distinguished recordings.’ New York Times

‘Lewis is one of the best pianists I know for delivering both explosiveness of drama and the kind of melting expressiveness which draws you in, but without losing that inner core of strength which raises Schubert from genteel picturesqueness into an artist of granite stature.’ Music Web International

Thanks to our partner

Program Partner: The Langham Melbourne

COVID Safety

Melbourne Recital Centre is committed to the safety of our artists, staff and patrons. A range of public health, hygiene and physical distancing measures are currently in place. Click here to learn more.

About International Classics

In 2023, Melbourne Recital Centre’s flagship recital series Great Performers becomes International Classics.

As the Centre evolves, so too do our programs and offerings. While the acclaimed series may now be known by a new name, International Classics continues to showcase Australian and international artists of the highest calibre performing the greatest classical repertoire on the Elisabeth Murdoch Hall stage.

Intimate, moving and awe-inspiring, the International Classics concert experience offers audiences the opportunity to witness the compelling virtuosity of artists from across the globe as they perform a curated program of music in an award-winning venue specially designed for classical music to soar.

Whether you’re a seasoned concertgoer, or seeking your first classical concert experience, International Classics is your must-have ticket to experience classical music excellence.

‘In this series we showcase an outstanding lineup of musicians from around the world, who make the most intimate recital into epic memories. These are artists at the top of their game, delighting and inspiring audiences in great venues of the world. There’s no magic at work here – it’s simply incredible artists having a conversation with an audience, in Australia’s best recital venue.’ Marshall McGuire, Director of Programming