Classical Preview: Great names in concert in anniversary year

While the musical world was in the grip of Beethoven mania, two boys were born in 1810 who were to totally to change the face of piano music for ever. Their names were Fryderyk Chopin and Robert Schumann, both destined to live but a very short time.
By The Newsroom
Published 7th May 2010, 11:45 BST
Updated 7th May 2010, 11:45 BST

They were to bring a new freedom of expression and lyrical beauty to the keyboard, helped, in no little way, by the improvements that were being made to the concert instrument.

In the year when we mark their bicentenary in the concert hall and on disc, the pianist, Sarah Beth Briggs, is combining both in a concert of their most popular works, at York's Sir Jack Lyons Concert Hall.

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"I am focussing my solo recitals on this anniversary year as there is so much great and popular music to programme. I was surprised to find that there are so few similar concerts in the area, as it must generate a lot of audience interest."

Living and working in Yorkshire for many years, she came to international attention as joint winner of the International Mozart Competition in Salzburg, having made her London concert debut at the age of 12.

"Though I still have a strong commitment as a soloist, I find myself increasingly orientated towards chamber music, including two super groups with the clarinettist, Janet Hilton, and one with Robin Ireland."

As a highly regarded recording artist she is now working towards another bicentenary project next year with the birth of Liszt. The work to be recorded is the massive Sonata in B minor, and potential sponsors should hurry to talk to her.

Sarah Beth Briggs, Sir Jack Lyons Concert Hall, May 19, 7.30pm. 01904 432439.

Related topics:Robert SchumannYorkYorkshire