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Description
The solo recital of multiple international competition laureate Sven-Sander Šestakov at the Arvo Pärt Centre is devoted entirely to the works of the great 19th-century piano virtuoso Ferenc Liszt. The captivating programme highlights both Liszt’s extraordinary mastery as a pianist and the literary and religious inspirations behind his music.
The Ballade No. 2 is almost a synthesis of Liszt’s creative strengths – his innovative approach to form and his skilful blending of drama and lyricism. The piece has often been associated with the story of Hero and Leander from Greek mythology. The Two Legends, S. 175, are rich tone paintings that recount the miraculous lives of saints bearing the name Francis. For Liszt – a devout Catholic who himself was christened Franz (Francis) – St Francis of Assisi held symbolic significance throughout his life, inspiring several of his masterpieces. The evening concludes with two emotionally contrasting episodes from the tragic tale of Doctor Faust, another recurring source of inspiration for Liszt: first, the sombre yet solemnly majestic The Night Procession, which has received far too little attention, and then the famous Mephisto Waltz, with its demonic energy and irresistible drive.
Sven-Sander Šestakov has performed with several orchestras under the batons of Olari Elts, Andres Mustonen, and Kaspar Mänd, among others, and has given solo recitals in venues across Estonia. His competition achievements include 3rd Prize at the 3rd Stockholm International Music Competition (2014) and at the 13th Padua International Music Competition in Italy (2015) in piano duo with Gerda Klemm. At the 8th Estonian Young Pianists’ Competition (2016) he received 2nd Prize, and at the 9th Estonian Pianists’ Competition (2019) he was awarded a Diploma and the Estonian National Symphony Orchestra Prize. In 2018, he took part in the Estonian TV series Klassikatähed (“Classical Stars”). Šestakov studied at Tartu Music School No. 1, the Heino Eller Tartu Music College, and the Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre in the piano class of Professor Ivari Ilja.
Programme
Ferenc Liszt (1811–1886)
– Ballade No. 2, S. 171
– Two Legends, S. 175
- St Francis of Assisi Preaching to the Birds II. St Francis of Paola Walking on the Waves
– Two Episodes from Lenau’s “Faust”, S. 110 I. The Night Procession II. The Dance in the Village Inn (Mephisto Waltz)
