"John Lill is, without a doubt, one of the finest pianists at work today and his undemonstrative appearance on the stage belies a fiercely passionate and romantic temperament" Seen and Heard International, October 2010

Arguably Britain's most well known pianist, who has recently celebrated his 70th birthday with a highly acclaimed complete Beethoven Sonata Cycle, John Lill first came to international attention when he won the coveted Tchaikovsky prize in 1970 and is known for his aristocratic interpretations of Beethoven and the great masters of the 19th and 20th century piano repertoire. He has been a popular visitor to the BSO for over forty years and this is a special opportunity to hear him in recital.

Programme:

Mozart : Sonata in F Major
Schumann : Fantasy in C Major
Chopin : Nocturne in C minor
Chopin : Polonaise in F-sharp minor
Beethoven : Sonata in F minor 'Appassionata'

Recognised at once as a landmark, Saint-Saëns’ Third Symphony had a powerful impact on later symphonists with its unconventional form and extended thematic development from a few simple opening ideas. It reveals a genuine flair for sumptuous orchestral colour, suave and unforgettable melody and brilliant craftsmanship – the zenith of his symphonic output. Brahms spent the greater part of the 1850s building his first orchestral masterpiece, the D minor Piano Concerto, out of material meant for other works.

It is a bold and daring work, stormy and dramatic, tender and lyrical, and filled with youthful passion and surging power written at a time of intense personal experiences for Brahms, most of which revolved around his complicated relationship with Robert and Clara Schumann. Schumann himself appraised Weber’s operatic gem as “a chain of sparkling jewels from beginning to end – all brilliant and flawless.”

Box Office

Tickets from £14-£38. Discounts available for groups, carers, children and students and those on low income. See website for more information