Julius Drake and Elisabeth Leonskaja perform Schubert's Grand Duo in Oxford Chamber Music Festival

Two renowned pianists, Julius Drake [https://www.juliusdrake.com/] and Elisabeth Leonskaja [http://www.leonskaja.com/] performed Schubert's Grand Duo at Holywell Music Room today as part of OCMF 2024.

The event was packed out and the audience sat riveted as they delivered this virtuoso performance of one of Schubert's least familiar works. It is easy to guess why this work is so rarely performed - because it is so fiendishly difficult. 

A large scale work, conceived almost like a symphony for piano, it appeared to make ever greater demands on the pianists as it went on. There is a first movement of classical design, full of intricate development and exploration of themes, followed by a serene, introspective Andante. The third movement, a boisterous Scherzo and Trio, is followed by an astonishingly dynamic and turbo-driven Allegro.

The pair, well matched and obviously enjoying every minute of this challenging piece, got a standing ovation.

OCMF continues until tomorrow.

https://www.ocmf.net/2024-festival/autumn-festival-2024/