A standing ovation is quite rare in this series and recognised Asagi Nakata's intense rapport with the audience and a very imaginative recital programme, thrilling and romantically intense by turns. Both virtuoso players, Earl Wilde and Georg Cziffra were referenced in their arrangements of "The Man I Love" and Vecsey's "Valse Triste" and perhaps in the style of playing, most notably in the rhythmically galloping, off the stool out-of-saddle, performance of the Faust Valse (whilst executing very precise pedalling). Her choice for encore of Ludovico Einaudi's "Experience" was very appropriate in recognising the ability of pianists to reach wide audiences in the crossover genre. It was also another salute to another pianist composer. (the encore follows the closing screen after the main recital). And I agree with @marra4887 about the showcasing of the Fazioli. I was on my feet, too.
Wonderful playing, beautiful elegance of movement on and off the keyboard - an exhilarating concert. Thank you, Asagi! Also great acoustics and a Fazioli piano!
Fabulous performances, already one of the best English pianists of his generation. I've just heard him live on BBC Radio 3 In Tune playing Ravel and a Liszt Legend, spell binding. What a gift from God this young man is...
Sanctuary service always provides me with great solace. The prayers, choices of poetry and songs, along with the hymns and the gentleness of the entire service are helping me in my grief. Thank you.
A wonderful and confident performance. A great pleasure to hear the Villa Lobos preludes played with such attention to the dynamics and such love of the music.
I attended this concert with its interesting program that traversed the centuries. Both musicians are quite talented. I would like to focus on one aspect of their successful performance. Without engaging in vulgar flamboyance, they carefully employed their facial expressions and body movements to help the audience understand the music. This is a rare gift. Well done. Please continue to play together as a duo while joining with others for larger scale chamber music.
