Writing for The New York Times, Vivien Schweitzer noted that Marc-Andre Hamelin "finds the word 'virtuoso,' which is invariably applied to his playing, a somewhat derogatory descriptive that implies mere showmanship ... But he wields his jaw-dropping technique, impressive even alongside the technical wizardry or many contemporary pianists, entirely in the service of insightful, passionate music making." Mr. Hamelin's unique blend of musicianship and virtuosity brings forth interpretations remarkable for their freedom, originality, and prodigious technical mastery.

Program:

Alban Berg: Piano Sonata, Op. 1

Gabriel Faure: Impromptu No. 2 in F minor, Op. 31

Gabriel Faure: Barcarolle No. 3 in G-flat Major, Op. 42

Maurice Ravel: Gaspard de la nuit

Marc-Andre Hamelin: Variations on a them by Paganini

Sergei Rachmaninov: Prelude in G Major Op. 32, No. 5

Sergei Rachmaninov: Prelude in G-sharp minor Op. 32, No.12

Sergei Rachmaninov: Sonata No. 2, Op. 36

"Marc-Andre Hamelin ranks among the small handful of performers in every generation whose abilities defy the imagination." - Toronto Star

"Hamelin's legend will grow - right now there is no one like him." - The New Yorker

"A one-of-a-kind concert artist." - The Los Angeles Times

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