Alban Berg

Strauss’ Metamorphosen for 23 solo strings may well be one of the most poignant works of the 20th century. Deeply impacted by the devastation of World War II, Strauss wrote a profound reflection on loss and destruction, which compels the listener to contemplate the transient nature of beauty. At a young age, Alban Berg composed the single movement Piano Sonata, an introspective work that conveys both strength and purity. Mozart’s expressive and sparkling Ninth Piano Concerto, virtuosic and full of flair, offers a lighthearted counterpart. Contrary to what the nickname ‘Jeunehomme’ (young man) suggests, Mozart likely wrote this piece for pianist Victoire Jenamy, the daughter of a dancer friend. The soloist in this concert is the blind Japanese pianist Nobuyuki Tsujii, who has received worldwide praise for his renditions of Mozart’s music.