Haydn & Mozart Keyboard Sonatas performed by fortepiano player John Irving will be the second chapter in the Lichfield Garrick’s new Sunday Afternoon Classical Concert series.
Haydn and Mozart were inspired by the newly invented ‘fortepiano’, with its delicate touch and ability to bring out a wide range of colour and dynamics. At the height of their compositional powers, each wrote sonatas which pre-empt the works of Beethoven, and are perfect examples of the classical sonata form.
John Irving, a Professor of Performance Practice at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance, has been recently described as ‘one of the foremost exponents of the period piano in the UK.’ John is an established performer on early keyboards (notably fortepiano, harpsichord and clavichord), specializing in music of the later 18th century.
John is internationally acclaimed for his ‘sensitive and delicate touch… exquisitely judged balance’ which brings out ‘the colours and beauties of the piano.’ In this very special performance, John will be playing an 18th century fortepiano copy (the precursor of the pianoforte).
Executive Director of the Lichfield Garrick, Karen Foster, who previously worked touring internationally with professional orchestras said: “John Irving is one of the of the foremost exponents of historically informed performance on the fortepiano in the UK. In this concert, John presents four solo keyboard sonatas by two of the giants of the classical era, Haydn and Mozart, played on the fortepiano with its light action and clear, transparent sound which differs profoundly from the modern piano.”
The Haydn & Mozart Keyboard Sonatas performance will be at the Lichfield Garrick on Sunday 4th June at 3pm. Tickets are £20 and £15 (students).
The theatre is also arranging pre-show afternoon tea in its Green Room Bar and Café, the perfect start to a wonderful afternoon of classical music. Tickets are available by calling the box office on 01543 412121.
