Heavenly Blue

On 30 August, one of the most outstanding pianists of Estonia’s younger generation, Piret Mikalai, will perform a solo programme at the Arvo Pärt Centre, presenting beloved piano works by canonical composers of the Romantic era.

Mikalai’s recital opens with the lyrical Sonata in A major by early Romantic composer Franz Schubert, renowned for its charming melodies and often compared to a “Viennese waltz danced in heaven”. Robert Schumann’s “Allegro” is an elegant, harmonically rich piece that reflects the refined instrumental command of a composer who once aspired to be a pianist. The second half of the concert features two works by Liszt – the celebrated concert étude “Un sospiro”, and the colourful, virtuosic “Spanish Rhapsody”, inspired by his travels in Spain and Portugal.

Mikalai has distinguished herself in numerous national and international competitions. In 2024, she received a finalist diploma and a special award at the 10th Estonian Pianists’ Competition. She is also the recipient of the Lilian Semper Scholarship, the Yamaha Music Foundation of Europe Scholarship, and the Helmi Valtman Scholarship. Mikalai studied at the Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre under Professor Peep Lassmann and Mihkel Poll, graduating with distinction with a Master’s degree. She has further honed her skills at the Mozarteum University Salzburg and through masterclasses with many renowned pianists.

Programme

Franz Schubert (1797–1828)
– Sonata in A major, D. 664

Robert Schumann (1810–1856)
– “Allegro”, Op. 8

Ferenc Liszt (1811–1886)
– “Un sospiro”, from Three Concert Études, S. 144 No. 3
– “Spanish Rhapsody”, S. 254