Orpheus & Marc-André Hamelin

Marc-André Hamelin, a pianist praised for his “commanding technique” along with his “warmth and affection” (NY Times), makes his long-awaited debut with Orpheus. He navigates the emotionally and physically draining Wanderer Fantasy in a newly commissioned orchestration that updates Liszt’s concerto version. Hamelin is himself a formidable pianist-composer, as heard in the rich counterpoint of his Passacaglia. Michi Wiancko’s take on fanciful delights by Chopin and the unflinchingly honest final sonata from Schubert allow the orchestra to flesh out sounds and emotions buried within these piano masterpieces.