This concert was definitely the part of the festival I was most looking forward to, as I have been listening to Sir András Schiff’s interpretations for close to two years now. While looking for good resources on the Beethoven Piano Sonatas, I was directed toward a set of talks he did from 2004-2006, one for each of the 32 sonatas, and each before a performance of the respective sonata. I found these interpretations refreshing in that I felt he truly let the music speak for itself. His style in the Beethoven Sonatas clean, dry, precise, and most importantly not avoidant of Beethoven’s sometimes extreme and unexpected dynamic and tempo markings. Schiff is, of course, also known for Bach and I have become pretty familiar with his recordings of the first book of the WTC. I enjoy these as well because of the attention to detail and dedication to the score. So needless to say, I was very excited to see the second book live. I should also note that I do prefer these works played on a harpsichord rather than a piano in general, unless quite a lot of care is taken, as is the case with Schiff.
First of all, I have to comment on how incredible it is to be 71 years old and have the stamina to play for 2 hours 45 minutes with incredible accuracy and sensitivity, especially when half the time you’re playing fugues! It is evident that Schiff knows these works so well that this is simply second nature for him. That said, Schiff played Saturday with much more interpretative freedom than I am used to hearing in his Bach. This included a greater use of the sustain pedal throughout (except in several cases where he chose not to use it at all) and much greater dynamic contrasts. Several times he ended a prelude or fugue in full force with a fortissimo flourish. Often times (much to my enjoyment) when the subject would enter mid-fugue in a booming low voice, Schiff would take full advantage. Tempi were steady though and his touch was as smooth and warm as ever. He gave great care to each line and was able to bring out the counterpoint despite a more washed sound. Also, after thunderous applause, Schiff obliged the audience with a 10 minutes encore (the final prelude and fugue from the first book of the WTC) which he played up to the same standard of excellence?!!
Though perhaps I wasn’t the biggest fan of every interpretive choice, the concert still exceeded my expectations, and I feel very fortunate that I had the opportunity to see such a master of his craft (hopefully not for the last time).
Andy, Thanks for this sensitive and perceptive commentary on the concert. First, I couldn’t agree more about the stamina — I think there are many younger musicians who wouldn’t dare undertake this. There were surprising elements to his performance — moments where he let the implicit drama really speak! Smooth and warm is a wonderful way to describe his touch. And the encore was stunning — I couldn’t believe it was doing it. I’m so glad you had the opportunity to see him in person in this remarkable setting; I’m sure it’s not the last time!!