A Musical Marathon in Bern
It’s not every day you get to witness a feat of musical endurance like this. The young Canadian pianist Jan Lisiecki, known for his extraordinary interpretive maturity, joins forces with Krzysztof Urbański, the dynamic music director of the Bern Symphony Orchestra. Together, they are set to take on one of the most ambitious projects in classical music: performing all of Ludwig van Beethoven's piano concertos over the span of just two days in Bern. This is no ordinary concert—it's a celebration of music, a test of skill, and an unforgettable experience for both performers and audiences alike.
Who Is Jan Lisiecki?
Jan Lisiecki, born on March 23, 1995, in Calgary, Alberta, has become one of the most celebrated pianists of his generation. At just 28 years old, he has already performed over a hundred concerts annually, gracing the world’s greatest stages. His journey began early—by the age of five, he was studying piano at the Mount Royal University Conservatory in Calgary. By nine, he was already performing with orchestras, showcasing a talent that would soon captivate audiences around the globe. Today, Lisiecki continues to thrill with his distinctive sound, poetic sensibility, and unparalleled technique.
What sets Lisiecki apart is not just his technical prowess but also his deep emotional connection to the music he plays. Critics have praised him as "a pianist who makes every note count," highlighting his ability to bring life and meaning to every piece he performs. Whether it's Beethoven, Chopin, or Schumann, Lisiecki's interpretations are both mature and heartfelt, leaving listeners moved and inspired.
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The Challenge Ahead
This particular performance series in Bern represents a monumental challenge for both Lisiecki and Urbański. Beethoven’s piano concertos are some of the most demanding works in the repertoire, requiring immense stamina, precision, and artistry. Performing all five concertos back-to-back over two days is an extraordinary undertaking, pushing the limits of what even the most seasoned musicians can achieve.
For Lisiecki, this isn’t just about technical perfection—it’s about storytelling. Each concerto tells its own story, from the dramatic intensity of the Third to the lyrical beauty of the Fourth. Lisiecki’s goal is to guide the audience through these musical journeys, ensuring they leave the concert hall with a deeper appreciation for Beethoven’s genius.
Why Music Moves Us
So, what draws Lisiecki to certain pieces? While technical difficulty certainly plays a role, it's far from the only factor. For him, it's all about the connection. "Do I feel a bond with the music?" he asks himself when choosing repertoire. That connection drives his performances, giving them an authenticity that resonates deeply with audiences.
In his recent album, which focuses on preludes, Lisiecki explores what he calls "the broad possibilities of the humble prelude." These short pieces may seem simple at first glance, but in Lisiecki's hands, they become windows into vast musical worlds. As he puts it, "Each prelude takes the audience on a musical expedition, revealing new landscapes with every note."
A Career Spanning Decades
Despite his young age, Lisiecki boasts a career that spans over a decade and a half. Signed to Deutsche Grammophon at just 15, he has worked closely with some of the most esteemed conductors and orchestras of our time. From the New York Philharmonic to the Berlin Philharmonic, his collaborations have taken him to the pinnacle of the classical music world.
His recordings have earned critical acclaim, including nominations for prestigious awards like the Juno Award. Yet, for Lisiecki, success isn't measured by accolades alone. It's about connecting with people through music, creating moments of shared joy, reflection, and inspiration.
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Beyond the Stage
Offstage, Lisiecki remains grounded and passionate about sharing his love for music. He often speaks about his Polish heritage, noting, "Of course, I feel Polish, and I’m proud of it." This sense of identity informs much of his work, especially his interpretations of Polish composers like Fryderyk Chopin. In fact, he has released albums dedicated to Chopin's works, recorded live with the Sinfonia Varsovia under the baton of Howard Shelley.
Lisiecki's influence extends beyond the concert hall. He inspires young pianists around the world, encouraging them to pursue their dreams with passion and dedication. His story serves as a reminder that while talent is important, hard work and perseverance are equally crucial in achieving greatness.
A Look to the Future
As Jan Lisiecki continues to push boundaries and explore new repertoire, his fans eagerly anticipate what comes next. Will he delve further into lesser-known composers? Or perhaps revisit familiar favorites with fresh perspectives? Whatever the future holds, one thing is certain: Lisiecki will approach it with the same passion and artistry that have defined his career thus far.
For now, though, all eyes are on Bern, where Lisiecki and Urbański are set to make history. Their performance of Beethoven's piano concertos promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime event, reminding us why classical music continues to captivate hearts and minds across generations.
