"The Keys to Passion: A Rachmaninoff Concerto Marathon" - a concert series by Jack Cheng and Kevin Wang

NOTE: This ticket link is for the MELBOURNE concert only!

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PROGRAM:

Piano Concerto No.2 Op.18

I. Moderato

II. Adagio Sostenuto

III. Allegro Scherzando

Piano Concerto No.3 Op.30

I. Allegro ma non tanto

II. Intermezzo: Adagio

III. Finale: Alla Breve

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Performers:

Jack Cheng is a world-recognised pianist who has won First Prizes in various international competitions held in New York, Rome and Sydney. A distinguished graduate of the prestigious Manhattan School of Music in New York, Jack holds both a Bachelor's and Master’s degree in Piano performance, having been mentored by the legendary music educators Prof. Phillip Kawin and Prof. William Wolfram. Jack has performed on some of the most iconic stages across the globe, including Carnegie Hall, Sydney Town Hall, and Sydney Opera House. Jack’s performances are nothing short of electrifying, and his flawless execution of even the most challenging pieces is truly breathtaking. If you want to witness Jack’s captivating musical prowess, be sure to grab your tickets as soon as possible!

Kevin Wang is a pianist, composer and music director who has performed extensively in classical piano, jazz and musical theatre for over ten years. Having studied under Clemens Leske (Sydney Conservatorium), Kevin earned his LMusA in Piano at an early age and has been recognized with multiple awards for his piano performance and composition both in Australia and overseas. Kevin has demonstrated his exceptional musical talent through solo performances and as part of pit orchestras, chamber groups, and bands. Kevin has also successfully led musical shows as a Music Director and Conductor, demonstrating his artistic and leadership abilities.

About the Works:

The passion and beauty of Rachmaninoff's concerti has long been celebrated in concert halls worldwide. Commemorating the 150th anniversary of his birth, pre-eminent Australian pianists Kevin Wang and Jack Cheng present his two most well known works in succession, playing the solo parts for concertos 2 and 3 respectively.

Rachmaninoff's Piano Concerto 2 is one of the most popular and beloved works in the classical music repertoire. Its soaring melodies and lush harmonies have captivated audiences for generations, and it remains a favourite of pianists and music lovers alike.

Similarly, Piano Concerto 3 is widely regarded as one of the most challenging and rewarding pieces in the entire piano concerto repertoire, with its complex rhythms, intricate harmonies, and technical demands that make it a true test of any pianist's skill and artistry. Both works demonstrate incredible pianism, virtuosity and emotional depth and feature both pianists at their most daring yet intimate moments. In spirit of his anniversary, we are excited to be presenting these works in a chamber setting, and in celebrating the profound everlasting effect his works and life have had on modern pianism.