Thanks to Beethoven, piano music stepped out of private salons and into concert halls. With Víkingur Ólafsson, we understand why. The Icelandic star’s latest album, Opus 109, took off like a rocket on the classical music charts. Critics praise Ólafsson’s clarity and contrasts, how he plays with both substance and emotion.
The legendary Piano Sonata in E Major, Opus 109, was one of Beethoven’s most remarkable creations. Few works for piano have been granted so many analyses and individual tributes. The first movement resembles a contemplative dreamscape, before breaking out into a wild flow of energy. It all culminates in the third movement with a joyful meditation: like a music box, it approaches a deep stillness.
In addition we hear sounds from Schubert and J.S. Bach, which are lovingly presented by Ólafsson. Take this chance to discover the ingenuity and pleasure hidden within the works of the great masters with an international star at the piano.
“For those prepared to go along with him, Ólafsson opens up a transcendent vista on to a brave new world.” – The Guardian
Come closer
Have a seat in the Great Hall an hour before the concert and let the introduction open the door to the stories behind the works, facts about the composers and personal reflections. The introduction is included in your ticket, lasts about 30 minutes and has free seating in the hall.
