Events

Vadym Kholodenko, piano
Alena Baeva, violin

Schumann Märchenbilder (Fairy Tale Pictures) Op. 113, for violin and piano
Schubert Fantasie in C major for violin and piano, Op. 159, D. 934
Interval
Schubert Fantasie in C major, Op. 15, D. 760 ‘Wanderer Fantasy’ for solo piano
Stravinsky Le Baiser de la Fée (The Fairy’s Kiss), for violin and piano

2013 Van Cliburn Gold Medalist, Vadym Kholodenko, has twice given suberb solo recitals in the Series. This time, we welcome him back with his longstanding duo partner, renowned violinist Alena Baeva.

Their programme starts in the land of make-believe. Schumann’s Fairy Tale Pictures is a work of four distinct movements, though Schumann gives no clue in the score as to which tales, or which fairy happenings, he had in mind for each one. Schubert’s Fantasie in C major for violin and piano stands out for the virtuosity that it asks of both instruments. Based around a simple song melody yet highly complex, it is a joyful piece with a wonderful celebratory finish.

Following the interval, Vadym performs Schubert’s ‘Wanderer Fantasy’ for solo piano. So called for its many connections to his ‘Der Wanderer’ lied, the work’s beautiful melodies and intricate themes conceal treacherous technical demands. And to end, we are back with make-believe. Le Baiser de la Fée is a one-act ballet that Stravinsky wrote as homage to Tchaikovsky. He later made an orchestral version and also a transcription for violin and piano alone. It is with this that Alena and Vadym close tonight.

Generously supported by Professor Nick Couldry

Listen here to Alena and Vadym’s latest album (released February 2024)