Festival KLAVER. András Schiff

Thu, 15 October at 19 Estonia Concert Hall
KLAVER Festival. András Schiff

Solo Recital. Sir András Schiff (piano)

Programme:
Bach, Mozart, Haydn, Beethoven, Schubert, and others

I did a lot of thinking during the difficult times of the pandemic. How could we refresh our musical life, and what might we do differently? Let’s be honest – our concerts are often shaped by conventions, expectations, and routines. This can lead to a certain monotony. Why aren't we more curious, bold, or imaginative? Where are the surprises?

Take piano recitals, for instance. We pianists are expected to determine our programmes in great detail many months or even years in advance. It is a significant burden. How can you know what you will want to play in two years, seven months, and four days? It depends on so many factors – the acoustics, the instrument, the mood of the day. For me, it feels much more spontaneous to announce the programme on the spot and introduce the works briefly. This creates a genuine connection with the audience; we are there to experience something together. It requires mutual respect and trust. I ask the audience to trust that I will always perform the finest works, as well prepared as possible. In return, I rely on the sensitivity and intelligence of my listeners.

In this way – and there are other ideas too – we can experience concerts in a new and refreshing light.
— András Schiff

Sir András Schiff is a singular figure in the world of pianism. He often travels with his own instruments, selecting the specific piano to suit the repertoire. He also prefers not to announce his concert programmes in advance. This approach grants him creative freedom, allowing him to finalise the selection during the acoustic rehearsal, guided by the specific space, the moment, and his inspiration.

Throughout his extensive career, Schiff has maintained a deep interest in period keyboard instruments. Solo recitals featuring large-scale, comprehensive cycles hold a central place in his work, with a focus on composers such as Bach, Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert, Chopin, Schumann, and Bartók. A dedicated chamber musician, he performs regularly with distinguished colleagues and has collaborated with nearly all the world’s leading orchestras and conductors. In recent years, he has increasingly focused on performing the piano concertos of Bach, Mozart, and Beethoven as both soloist and conductor.

Previously an artist for Decca, Schiff is currently an exclusive ECM artist. He teaches piano and chamber music at the Kronberg Academy and the Barenboim-Said Akademie and gives regular masterclasses. In 2014, he founded the "Building Bridges" mentorship programme to provide long-term support for talented young pianists. Among his current students is the Estonian pianist Tähe Lee Liiv, who participates in this programme.

Duration: the approximate duration will be determined during the performance.