The Royal Academy of Music presents a concert of piano masterworks by Clara Schumann and Gabriel Fauré, featuring young artists Junyan Chen, Charlotte Spruit, Edgar Francis and Hugh Mackay.

Programme

Clara Schumann (1819-1896) - Piano Trio in G minor, Op. 17

Gabriel Fauré (1845-1924) - Piano Quartet No. 1 in C minor, Op. 15

In the Artists’ Words

“Our programme exhibits works by two musical giants of the 19th Century, yet whose works have had massively different presences in concert programming since their composition. The Piano Trio by Clara Schumann, who was known predominantly by her contemporaries as one of the greatest living pianists of her time, is characterised by its expressive moderation and intimately balanced textures testament to the magnificent skill of such a celebrated chamber musician. Similarly, the first piano quartet by Fauré is never self-indulgent. It features a first movement exhibiting long stretches of melodic development, a humourous and light-hearted scherzo, a tragic slow movement, and a ecstatic final movement. We are hugely passionate about this music and are really excited by the prospect of performing these two masterworks together.”

Performers

Junyan Chen, piano
Charlotte Spruit, violin
Edgar Francis, viola
Hugh Mackay, cello