On a Tuesday night, an excited crowd gathered to experience the piano recital of Seong-Jin Cho, one of the great pianists of our time. Sold out weeks ago, it was hosted by the Seattle Symphony at Benaroya Hall, and a night to remember!
Cho started the program with the shimmering notes of Liszt’s Les jeux d’eaux a la Villa d’Este - what a treat to hear his sparkling fingers play with such delicacy, nuance and power! Beethoven’s nature-inspired Pastoral Sonata (B’s middle period) followed, and then Bartok’s “Out of Doors” practically burst us all out of our seats. After a short intermission, Cho performed Chopin’s 14 Waltzes with exquisite grace, style and more than an abundance of technique. The crowd jumped to their feet with wild applause! He played two encores - Schumann’s Traumerei and then after much applause and bowing, a final Chopin Waltz. After several returns to the stage, he reluctantly and with a bit of humor, closed the piano lid and walked off into the night. A great evening of music!
And of course, we can’t forget other important details - a delicious meal at Wild Ginger, and ice cream at Salt ‘n Straw afterwards (pear and blue cheese, anyone?!)
