On the evening of June 18th, piano master Ivo Pogorelich returned to the National Centre for the Performing Arts after a five-year absence and performed a collection of Chopin's works for an entire evening, interpreting the musical essence of the "poet of the piano".
Pogorelich gained great fame through the International Chopin Piano Competition, and last year he released a Chopin album, completing a return that took 20 years. The new album focuses on Chopin's works created in his final stage of life. During his visit to China this time, Pogorelich presented all the works from the album, conveying his latest thoughts and explorations.
The first half of the concert opened with the "The Polonaise-fantaisie in A-flat major, Op. 61". It was Chopin's last Polish dance before his death, with a complex structure and many thematic materials. It is highly artistic and creative and is considered Chopin's summary of his tortuous life. In the introduction, Pogorelich displayed his signature elastic speed, giving the work a new look, and vividly displaying the melody's beauty and freedom. In the "Piano Sonata No. 3", Pogorelich's unique large hands dealt clearly with the intricate piano texture. His key touch was even and affirmative, and his tone control was extraordinary. The fast finale pushed the atmosphere to a climax.
In the three pieces in the second half, Pogorelich's careful interpretation brought out the beautiful and broad lines of the "Ballade No.4 in f Minor Op.52". The "Berceuse in D-Flat Major, Op. 57" and "Barcarolle in F-Sharp Major, Op. 60" were condensed and powerful, full of poetry and shining brilliance. When the final note fell, the audience erupted into enthusiastic applause for Pogorelich's unique style and musical vision.
So far, the 2023 National Centre of the Performing Arts International Piano Series has passed its halfway point. Next, Japanese jazz master Kunihiko Sugano, Chinese pianist Zhang Haochen, French hall-level performer Philippe Entremont, and post-95 Chinese pianist Li Zhuoyu will be invited to continue performing on stage.
Translator: TANG Yingqi
Reviewer: ZHAO Huinan
