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Explore the enigmatic genius of Schubert with Paul Lewis.

Illustrious English pianist Paul Lewis returns to the Elisabeth Murdoch Hall stage and transports audiences to the timeless world of Franz Schubert.

Returning to complete his exploration of the composer’s great sonatas – this time focusing on the final three. These compositions weren’t always viewed as masterpieces, instead they laid dormant for a decade following Schubert’s death. It wasn’t until the centenary of his passing, well into the 20th century, that public opinion on the breadth and dramatic expansiveness of Schubert’s final three piano works began to change.

Now, well into the 21st century, Paul Lewis’s return to Melbourne follows two critically acclaimed performances in 2023 where he left audiences ‘in no doubt that he is probably the most virtuosic interpreter of Schubert today’ (Classic Melbourne).

Commencing the evening of soul-stirring music with Schubert’s Piano Sonata No.19 in C minor, Lewis’s artistry unveils the complex emotions and dramatic contrasts inherent in Schubert’s work. The composer’s genius continues to come to life as Lewis unravels the intricate melodies that define Schubert’s Piano Sonata No.20 in A; a captivating reminder of Schubert’s timeless allure. And finally, Piano Sonata No.21 in B-flat, the pinnacle of Schubert’s piano compositions. This intricate work unfolds like a musical odyssey, and under Paul Lewis’s expertise, becomes a transcendent experience.

A Special Pre-Concert Performance

To kick off our new season, Paul Lewis has a special gift for you – an entrée to the main course, if you like. Prior to his 7.30pm concert, Paul will present a special one-off performance of Schubert’s Sonata No.18 in G D894, from 5.30pm to 6.15pm, in Elisabeth Murdoch Hall. This event is free to ticket holders for the 7.30pm performance, and we encourage you to come to this unique event, then grab a drink from Blondie. We look forward to seeing you.

Post-Concert Talk

Following this extraordinary performance, Paul Lewis joins Melbourne Recital Centre’s Director of Programming, Marshall McGuire, in the ground floor foyer for a 20-minute discussion about his artistry, career, and experience. Take a seat and enjoy this perfect conclusion to your musical experience.

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Read the Program Notes

Artist & Program

Artist

Paul Lewis piano

Program

Pre-Concert Performance by Paul Lewis for Ticket Holders
5.30pm – 6.15pm in Elisabeth Murdoch Hall

Franz Schubert
Piano Sonata No.18 in G D894

Main Performance
7.30pm – 10pm in Elisabeth Murdoch Hall

Franz Schubert
Piano Sonata No.19 in C minor, D958
Piano Sonata No.20 in A, D959
Piano Sonata No.21 in B-flat, D960

Post-Concert Talk
Paul Lewis and Marshall McGuire
20 mins in the ground floor foyer

Series

This production is part of the following series: