[Concert Review] Pianist Marc-André Hamelin Triumphs With Power and Poetry
October 21, 2025
By Jenny Xiong (Classical Voice)
For most pianists, Beethoven’s “Hammerklavier” or Maurice Ravel’s Gaspard de la nuit would be challenge enough to anchor a recital. Not so for Canadian pianist Marc-André Hamelin, who presented a formidable solo program at Davies Symphony Hall on Sunday night, tackling both of these monumental works along with Schumann’s Waldszenen.
The result was nothing short of awe-inspiring. Hamelin allows his technique to serve as a conduit through which a composer’s music can reach the audience, and on this weekend’s program the pianist honored each piece via his virtuosity. The result was not one of grandiosity but rather one of humility: Hamelin positioned himself as a mere spokesman for the great composers. The audience lauded Hamelin with standing ovations both before and after intermission.