The Irish Chamber Orchestra concludes its acclaimed Beethoven Piano Concerto Cycle with a commanding performance of the Emperor Concerto at UCH
THE Irish Chamber Orchestra brings its celebrated Beethoven Piano Concerto Cycle to a majestic close this weekend, with ICO Associate Artist Kristian Bezuidenhout performing the composer’s Fifth Piano Concerto at University Concert Hall on Friday March 6.
Bezuidenhout, regarded as a master interpreter of Beethoven’s piano works, will guide audiences through an emotional journey spanning the composer’s career, from youthful exuberance to towering maturity. Guest Leader Magdalena Geka leads the ICO through an evening of contrasts, energy, and depth.
The programme opens with Beethoven’s Octet for Winds in E-flat Major, led by ICO Principal Oboe Daniel Bates.
This early work showcases the young composer’s confidence and vitality, charming listeners with its conversational warmth and buoyant wit.
Following the interval, Linda Buckley’s Fall Approaches (Haustid Nálgast) provides contemplative stillness.
Inspired by Icelandic poetry and the ancient tradition of rímur chanting, the piece creates a reflective interlude before the evening’s climax.
The concert reaches its zenith with Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 5, The Emperor. From bold opening gestures to sweeping lyricism, this is Beethoven at his most commanding.
With Bezuidenhout at the keyboard, the music surges with confidence and grandeur whilst remaining deeply human and uplifting.
The performance takes place at University Concert Hall on Friday March 6 with a second concert at Whyte Recital Hall, RIAM, Dublin, on Saturday March 7.