Beethoven’s ‘Hammerklavier’ Sonata performed on Sunshine Coast for first time
ONE of Beethoven’s most difficult and rarely played piano sonatas will make its long-awaited debut on the Sunshine Coast later this month.
The Hammerklavier Sonata Op. 106 will be performed by Russian-born virtuoso Konstantin Shamray, one of Australia’s most adventurous and physically demanding pianists.
The Hammerklavier, a 45-minute tour de force of technical mastery and emotional depth, is considered by many to be one of Beethoven’s most challenging works, with some commentators describing it as “almost unplayable” for many concert pianists.
Yet, for Mr Shamray, known for his powerful, dynamic style, this challenge is precisely the kind that excites him.
The performance will take place at the Lucas Parklands auditorium in Montville on January 23 and 24.
“It’s Beethoven’s longest and most difficult piece,” said Ian Lucas of Lucas Parklands.
“It’s exactly the kind of challenge that Konstantin thrives on—he has a big physical presence at the piano and loves taking on monumental works.”
Beethoven composed the Hammerklavier to showcase the increased range and depth of sound made possible by the newer pianos of the early 1800s, a stark contrast to the smaller pianos of Mozart and Haydn’s time.
The work, rarely performed in public due to its length and complexity, is an extraordinary display of virtuosity that will be a special treat for local classical music lovers.
“It’s a difficult piece to program because of its length and the right pianist is essential,” Lucas continued. “But it’s too good an opportunity to miss, especially for our first concerts of the new year.”
Joining Mr Shamray for these highly anticipated performances is fellow award-winning pianist Daniel Le, a Melbourne-based artist whose career spans four continents and various musical genres, from classical to jazz. Mr Le will perform the iconic Rhapsody in Blue by George Gershwin, with Mr Shamray providing support on piano.
“Daniel plays Rhapsody in Blue brilliantly,” Lucas said. “Having lived in New York for many years, he brings the authentic New York jazz swing to the piece, which is crucial for a world-class performance.”
The concerts will feature three major works, each performed only once over the two days.
On January 23, Mr Shamray and Mr Le will present Saint-Saëns’ Piano Concerto No. 5, with Le performing Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue and Gershwin miniatures.
The following day, January 24, will see the Hammerklavier Sonata and Rhapsody in Blue take centre stage. Both concerts will begin at 4pm, with limited tickets available. For ticket inquiries and more information, visit Lucas Parklands or call 07 5478 5667 or 0409 623 228..
This rare performance promises to be an unmissable event for classical music enthusiasts on the Sunshine Coast.