Hannes Minnaar’s 24 Shostakovich Preludes and Fugues

EVENT DESCRIPTION

In 1950, Dmitri Shostakovich began composing the bold and enigmatic 24 Preludes and Fugues, Op. 87, amidst waves of pressure from the Soviet Power. This monumental work, believed to be inspired by J.S. Bach’s Well-Tempered Clavier, embodies not only Shostakovich’s masterful contrapuntal artistry but also the profound exploration of his complex inner turmoil.

Marking the 50^th anniversary of Shostakovich’s passing, pianist Hannes Minnaar will present this tour de force in a three-hour recital, delving into “all steps of the scale and the human mind” (NRC). As the first Dutchman featured in the Royal Concertgebouw’s Master Pianists Series in 20 years, Minnaar will demonstrate his remarkable stamina and artistry. He will infuse the performance with “depth, optimism, gloom, strength, and subtlety” (Pianist Magazine), creating a rich tapestry of emotions inherent in this monumental work.