A Virtuoso Showcase: Augustin Hadelich’s Recital with Chih-Yi Chen

November 27, 2024, 4:57 PM · INDIANAPOLIS - In celebration of the Violin Society of America’s 50th Anniversary, the International Violin Competition of Indianapolis presented an extraordinary recital by 2006 Gold Medalist Augustin Hadelich and Official IVCI Pianist Chih-Yi Chen - sponsored generously by Pirastro GmbH. Held in the resplendent yet intimate Grand Hall of the Indiana Landmarks Center for a sold-out audience of more than 500, the evening was a masterclass in artistry and virtuosity.

Violinist Augustin Hadelich and pianist Chih-Yi Chen. Photo by Denis Ryan Kelly Jr.

A Demanding and Diverse Program

The carefully curated program was both eclectic and demanding, offering a journey through various styles and eras of violin repertoire. Beginning with Poulenc’s Sonata, FP 119, Hadelich immediately displayed his ability to balance lyricism with rhythmic intensity, navigating the piece’s shifting moods with precision and sensitivity. His interpretation highlighted Poulenc’s wit and melancholy in equal measure.

David Lang’s "Before Sorrow" from Mystery Sonatas offered a hauntingly contemporary contrast, with Hadelich drawing the audience into its meditative depths. His nuanced phrasing and impeccable control brought Lang’s minimalist language to life, making the work a standout moment of the evening, and a personal favorite.

The virtuosic fireworks began with Ysaÿe’s Sonata No. 3 in D minor, "Ballade." Hadelich’s performance here was nothing short of electrifying. His technical command, particularly in the fiendishly difficult passages, evoked comparisons to Paganini himself. Every double-stop and bowing was executed with clarity and precision, yet never at the expense of musicality.

Romance, Blues - and a jazzy Ravel

Amy Beach’s Romance, Op. 23 offered a lyrical respite, with Hadelich’s warm tone soaring above Chen’s delicately supportive accompaniment. The duo’s chemistry shone in this intimate and heartfelt piece.

In Coleridge-Taylor Perkinson’s Louisiana Blues Strut, Hadelich leaned into the piece’s jazz-inflected rhythms with playful exuberance, demonstrating his stylistic versatility. His ability to transition seamlessly from classical refinement to bluesy swagger was a true testament to his artistry.

The evening concluded with Ravel’s Sonata in G major, a work that demands both technical prowess and effortless transitions between the classical and jazz-inspired elements. Hadelich embraced the movement’s jazzy, syncopated rhythms with a lightness and flair that brought Ravel’s modernist influences to the forefront. The Perpetuum Mobile finale was particularly dazzling, with Hadelich’s flawless technique and Chen’s vivacious playing bringing the audience to its feet. Many times.

A Modern-Day Paganini

Hadelich’s performance was a reminder of why he is one of the most sought-after violinists of our time. His pitch-perfect intonation, lightning-fast runs, and profound musical insight captivated all in attendance. Chih-Yi Chen, as always, provided superb support, her playing complementing Hadelich’s brilliance with grace and precision.

After several encores and even more standing ovations, Hadelich left the audience in awe, his final bow met with thunderous applause that lingered long after he had exited the stage.

For those unable to attend in person, the livestream and on-demand option through December 2 ensures this remarkable concert can be enjoyed by a global audience: click here - tickets to view the concert digitally are $10.

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A Virtuoso Showcase: Augustin Hadelich’s Recital with Chih-Yi Chen

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