Yundi, Piano, Royal Festival Hall

After he became the youngest ever winner of the 2000 International Chopin Piano Competition in Warsaw, Yundi (formerly known as Yundi Li) has carved out a stellar career for himself. See him perform works by the composer who made his name, as he brings a programme of some of Chopin’s most exquisitely-crafted pieces to the Royal Festival Hall.
Chopin’s compositions typically pose technical and expressive challenges to pianists, and these pieces are no exception. The formally innovative 4 Ballades combine drama, dance, fantasy and contemplation while testing the performer’s dexterity. They also encompass a wide range of moods, from wistful melancholy to blissful calm. A set of miniature masterpieces, the 24 Preludes are comprised of one piece for every major and minor key. Although brief, these pieces each have their own unique and memorable character, demonstrating Chopin’s talent for writing miniature forms.
Yundi’s international career has taken him to many of the world’s most prestigious venues, performing both as a soloist and with a number of esteemed orchestras and conductors. Live performances andrecordings alike have won the pianist critical admiration and legions of fans across the globe. Yundi is part of a young generation of talented Chinese pianists to break into the Western market: however, while Lang Lang may win for showmanship, Yundi is acclaimed for his refined performances.
The combination of one of today’s leading performers and these miniature masterpieces makes this recital a particular highlight of the Southbank Centre’s 2014/2015 International Piano Series. Don’t miss the opportunity to see this piano superstar in action.