For the first time since Perth Concert Hall opened in 2005, there were two Steinways on stage in the venue on Sunday as a brand-new instrument shared the spotlight with the Hall’s original piano.
Pianist Steven Osborne who selected Perth Concert Hall’s first Steinway and also chose the new replacement, teamed up with Paul Lewis for an afternoon of Music for Two Pianos on Sunday 6 October to celebrate the new and send off the old.
Commenting on the selection process, which saw him visiting the Steinway factory in Hamburg, Germany to test run a range of contenders, Steven Osborne said:
“I have been so excited to choose a new Steinway for Perth Concert Hall. My visit to the Steinway factory enabled me to select a fine new instrument to follow in the footsteps of the excellent and much-loved piano which has served Perth Concert Hall so well over the last 20 years. Sunday was very poignant as, uniquely, we had both Steinways on the stage, welcoming one and bidding farewell to the other. To do this in partnership with my great friend and colleague Paul Lewis was very special indeed.”
The performance of duets by Schubert, Schumann and Brahms saw the two pianists swap between the two instruments in a mesmerising display of musicianship and camaraderie that will live long in the memories of those attending.
James Waters, Creative Director for Classical Music for Perth Theatre and Concert Hall said:
“It’s fantastic to have a new Steinway in the building and we are hugely grateful to Steven for making such an important selection for us once again. His expertise has resulted in an instrument that is carefully matched to the pattern of music we present in Perth Concert Hall, allowing us to continue to curate a classical programme of the highest standard. The outgoing Steinway has been treasured by international musical stars, broadcasters and audiences alike over the past 20 years, so it was essential to get the decision absolutely right. I am confident that we have found just the right piano for the job!”
There are many more opportunities for audiences to appreciate Perth Concert Hall’s new Steinway during the current season with upcoming performances including Mozart’s Piano Concerto No 20 by Lera Auerbach with the Royal Scottish National Orchestra on Wednesday 9 October, Danny Driver’s Lunchtime Concert of Bach’s Goldberg Variations on Monday 11 November and a return of Steven Osborne with Alban Gerhardt on Tuesday 12 November as part of Perth Concert Hall’s Classical Stars series.
For tickets and information on the classical programme and other shows coming up in Perth Theatre and Concert Hall visit perththeatreandconcerthall.com or call or visit the Box Office in Perth Theatre (10:00 – 18:00 Tuesday to Saturday, 01738 621031).
Monday 7 October 2024
