Pierre-Laurent Aimard

The great French pianist Pierre-Laurent Aimard performs Ligeti's Études complete.

The 18 Etudes are arguably one of the most significant piano masterpieces of the last century.

Stretching the performer to extraordinary technical feats, they are unified by poetic imagery that ranges from Autumn in Warsaw to the 'Sorcerer’s Apprentice', from rainbows to 'the Devil’s Staircase'.

Ligeti’s startling imagination, with all its quirky humour, virtuoso manipulation of rhythm and apparently limitless mix of sonic colour, has created a true contemporary classic.

This is a special opportunity to hear the complete Etudes played by the composer’s own preferred interpreter, and to explore the music further as he discusses it in an onstage interview in the second half.

Repertoire:
Ligeti: Etudes (complete)