Mon, Nov 18
08:00PM
Mon, Nov 18
08:00PM

concert and lecture

Charles Valentin Alkan: His Life and Music

Alkan (1813-1888) was a remarkable and enigmatic composer and virtuoso pianist—and a friend and rival of Chopin and Liszt. This year marks the 200th anniversary of his birth. Alkan’s family roots were in Metz, but he was born and lived most of his life in Paris. His striking compositions reflect his intellect and culture as well as his strictly Orthodox upbringing. Students from Mannes College, The New School for Music perform a wide range of Alkan’s music, including solo piano, chamber, concerted and vocal works. Many of the works played at this event will be New York premieres. Donald Wagner, a leading authority on Alkan, will offer comments and context on Alkan’s life and music. Fifty years ago, New York was the site of an event that galvanized the modern revival of interest in Alkan.

Among the pieces that will be included are:
Le Festin d'Esope (from Op. 39 Douze Etudes)
Le Vent (from Op. 15 Trois Morceaux)
Andante with strings in C sharp major (from Op. 13 Trois Andantes)
2er Verset du 41me Psaume for soprano and piano

and selections from the chamber music, Esquisses Op. 63, Preludes Op. 31 and Les Mois Op. 74


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concert and lecture