The 9th annual San Francisco International Piano Festival is proud to present opening night at Old First Concerts, continuing the festival's long standing partnership with the series. As the season celebrates a kaleidoscope of international voices, we begin with Samuel Barber's Souvenirs, a charming and sparkling suite of dances reflective of different musical traditions. Derek Bermel's Turning presents a profound postcard in variation form, written after the composer's studies in Ghana. Beginning with a simple hymn tune, the work explores an eclectic palette of musical styles in dramatic fashion. The music of Liszt is featured throughout the evening, a master musical storyteller who exploits the full tonal and technical possibilities of the piano.
This program features the San Francisco debut of renowned pianist Éva Polgár in solo works by Liszt and in duo works with festival founder and artistic director Jeffrey LaDeur. Ms. Polgár maintains an active and international performance schedule along with her dedication to mentoring the next generation of musicians. Her performances have been heard at Carnegie Hall, the Gewandhaus in Leipzig, and at prominent venues throughout the United States and her native Hungary. Mezzo-soprano Kindra Scharich makes a special guest appearance to share songs by these great composers. Don't miss this varied and exciting evening of classics and rare gems!
*San Francisco debut
Samuel Barber
Souvenirs (excerpts)
Barber
St. Ita's Vision
Bessy Bobtail
Sure on this shining night
Franz Liszt
Deux légendes, S. 175
St. François d’Assise: La Prédication aux oiseaux
St. François de Paule marchant sur les flots
Derek Bermel
Turning (1995)
Franz Liszt
Die drei Zigeuner S.320
Ihr Glocken von Marling S.328
Freudvoll und Leidvoll (s. 280bis)
Franz Liszt
Gaudeamus igitur (Humoreske), for piano four hands, S. 586
Éva Polgár, piano
Jeffrey LaDeur, piano
Kindra Scharich, mezzo-soprano