Pieter Wispelwey, cello (Netherlands) and Paolo Giacometti, piano (Netherlands, Germany, Italy)

PROGRAM
J.S. Bach - Suite No.2 for solo cello.
F. Schubert - Sonata for Piano and Violin in A major, D 574 (arranged for cello and piano by P.Wispelwey)
J.Brahms - Skerzo from the Sonata for Violin  and Piano FAE (arranged for cello and piano by P.Wispelwey's arrangement for cello and piano)

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G. Ligeti - Sonata for Solo Cello

F. Chopin - Sonata for Cello and Piano in G minor, Op.65

Another jewel in the crown of the International M. K. Čiurlionis Music Festival - a concert of top classical music stars.
The names of Peter Wispelwey and Paolo Giacometti guarantee an impeccable grasp of each composer's stylistic style, original interpretation and phenomenal craftsmanship, all of which combine to create an unforgettable evening with an exceptional programme.
Peter Wispelwey and Paolo Giacometti are both well known as soloists.
Mr. In addition, Wispelwey chooses programmes that require special intellectual and physical qualities, making him one of the most charismatic recitalists in the world.
The Dutchman's performance of the complete Bach cello suites in one evening has been critically acclaimed throughout Europe and the USA, not only for the complexity of the programme, but also for its originality of interpretation. The New York Times wrote: "On paper, it is a feat that requires vividness, stamina and perhaps a little boredom. In practice, Mr Wispelwey has risen to the challenge impressively, offering moments that are both eloquent and provocative."
Bach is not the only composer whose complete cycle is performed by Mr Wispelwey. His repertoire includes the complete cello works of Britten, Beethoven and the Brahms sonatas, which he performed over three evenings in Melbourne, thus making his name in music history.

Not least the Italian-born pianist P. Giacometti, who is resident in the Netherlands and Germany. He has won numerous prizes in international competitions and has played with renowned orchestras under conductors such as Frans Brüggen, Kenneth Montgomery, Lauren Petitgirard, Michael Tilkin and Jaap van Zweden. Giacometti has recorded numerous works for the Classical Music Channel, and his recordings have been hailed as a benchmark of exceptional quality.
The cycle of all Rossini's piano works is particularly prized, of which Italian critics have written, "...Rossini has finally found his pianist...."
The Italian is also renowned for his great love for chamber music. This has led to successful collaborations with world-renowned artists such as violinist Gordan Nikolich, Austrian clarinettist Alois Brandhofer, Australian oboist Bart Schneemann and violinist Viktoria Mullova.

The duet with Pieter Wispelwey, however, was a real standout. In 2019, the duo was awarded the Brahms Prize for their innovative interpretations of the composer's music, which prompted them to record not only the complete Brahms duets, but also the Schubert duets. The duo regularly performs with this programme at prestigious festivals and in the most renowned concert halls.
The duo has selected an exceptional programme for the audience of the International M. K. Čiurlionis Music Festival, which will include solo performances of works by Bach, Schubert, Ligeti and Chopin, as well as duets.