‘Storytellers: Medtner and Stravinsky’

‘Storytellers: Medtner and Stravinsky’ with internationally acclaimed pianist Alexei Volodin in recital ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀

Alexei Volodin is joined by Edith Peña and members of the London Chamber Orchestra to present a special programme devoted to the legacy of Russian composer Nikolai Medtner who lived and worked in London from 1936 to 1951. Far less famous than his contemporary Igor Stravinsky, today Medtner is recognised as one of the most remarkable 20th century composers for piano. In this recital Medtner and Stravinsky are juxtaposed as storytellers of their Russian folkloric past and masters of imaginative piano writing.  The performance programme will be introduced by classical music journalist and BBC 3 presenter Tom Service. The concert is part of Medtner International Festival 2017.

PROGRAMME

Introduction by Tom Service

Nikolai Medtner Fairy tales (Op. 20-1, B-flat minor; Op. 34-2, E-minor; Op. 34-3, A-minor (‘Forest spirit’)
Alexei Volodin, piano

Igor Stravinsky The Rite of Spring
Alexei Volodin, piano
Edith Peña, piano

Nikolai Medtner Piano Quintet in C major, Op. posth.
Alexei Volodin, piano

Members of London Chamber Orchestra:
Vasko Vassilev, violin
Kathy Shave, violin
Rosemary Warren-Green, viola
Julia Graham, cello