Pianist Leon Fleisher to perform at Bates Recital Hall, Feb. 26

AUSTIN, Texas—The New York Times hailed him as “The finest American pianist of his (and probably any) time.” Widely acknowledged as one of the greatest pianists of the 20th century, Leon Fleisher performs at The University of Texas at Austin Thursday, Feb. 26 at 8 p.m. in Bates Recital Hall. The program includes solo works for piano by Bach and Brahms. Cellist and University of Texas at Austin faculty member Bion Tsang will join Fleisher for the second half of the concert in Brahms’ Sonata No. 1 in E minor.

Because of an injury to his right hand, most likely caused by repetitive stress syndrome, Fleisher’s concert career came to an abrupt halt in 1965. He took that opportunity to regroup and take on the left-handed repertoire for the piano, in addition to becoming a conductor, an arts administrator and a renowned teacher. Among his pupils are two current university professors Gregory Allen and Danielle Martin.

In addition to the concert, Fleisher will present piano and chamber music master classes in Bates Recital Hall on Tuesday, Feb. 24 at 10 a.m. and Wednesday, Feb. 25 at 4:30 p.m., respectively. Admission to all events is free.

Program

Bach-Petri “Sheep May Safely Graze” for Piano

Brahms Waltzes, Op. 39, for Piano

Bach-Brahms Chaconne for Piano Left Hand

—Intermission—

Brahms Sonata in E minor, Op. 38, for Piano and Cello

Allegro non troppo
Allegretto quasi Menuetto
Allegro

For more information call: 512-471-5496 or visit the School of Music Web site.

• Professor Bion Tsang
• School of Music
• College of Fine Arts