“An unforgettable Schumannist, perhaps the greatest woman pianist of our time.” Sviatoslav Richter An artist of great distinction INTRODUCTION Elisso Virsaladze plays with unhurried grace and charm. Her Schumann and Schubert are of exceptional beauty – and her Brahms and Liszt stunning, the fine playing displays exquisite control and a rich tone. Elisso Virsaladze shot to fame when she won third prize at the Moscow International Tchaikovsky Competition in 1962. She was just 20. Four years later she won the Schumann Competition in Germany. Her distinguished career as an international recitalist, chamber musician, and soloist with the world’s great orchestras under such conductors as Muti, Sanderling, Sawallisch and Svetlanov stretches over more than half a century. In her eighth decade, she is busier than ever; performing, giving master-classes and serving on the jury at many of the world’s most prestigious music competitions. In addition to being honoured “People’s Artist of the USSR”, the highest artistic award in Russia, her many recordings reveal the vibrant musical personality of an exceptional artist. Festival concert-goers have the rare chance to experience the magic of Virsaladze’s playing in both a concert with the outstanding David Oistrakh Quartet and in a solo recital featuring her signature Schumann repertoire. A special highlight of the Festival. PROGRAMME Schumann Arabeske in C major, Op 18 Schubert Sonata in B-flat major, D960 Schumann Fantasiestücke, Op 12 Schumann/Liszt Widmung from Myrthen, S566 Liszt Rhapsody Espagnole, S254