In a season of six solo piano recitals given by international pianists, the Society hosts the third recital in its 2021-22 season at Central Hall, the Dolphin Centre, at 3pm on Sunday 12th December. Following pianists from Russia and Germany, the Society welcomes Frenchman Patrick Hemmerlé, a pianist acclaimed for the originality of his concert programmes and the depth of his interpretations. Patrick holds the post of Musician in Residence at Clare Hall, Cambridge where, as well as performing, he is in demand as a lecturer and has given many talks for Cambridge University. In 2021, he became the artistic director of Clare Hall’s Intimate Engagements series which brings prominent musicians from all over the world to Clare Hall, each performer giving an informal talk as part of their presentation, sharing their reflections on the musical themes.
The originality of Patrick’s programmes is evident in his programme in Darlington. Alongside works by well-known and frequently heard composers such as Ravel and Liszt, piano rarities by Vierne, Albeniz, Granados and Villa-Lobos feature strongly in the programme. “Achieving a variety of works in a season is always a challenge”, say chairman Greg Johnson, “and Patrick’s programme goes well beyond what could have been envisaged”.
Full details of the programme can be seen online at www.dpiano.co.uk . Tickets priced £15 (U21 free) are also available through the website but are always available on the door on the day of the recital.