RAFAEL LIPSTEIN (Switzerland/Germany-Argentina)

Rafael Lipstein, piano

Programme:
Johann Sebastian Bach (1685–1750), Adagio BWV 974

Ludwig van Beethoven (1770–1827), Piano Sonata No. 30, Op. 109
I. Vivace ma non troppo, sempre legato – Adagio espressivo
II. Prestissimo
III. Gesangvoll, mit innigster Empfindung. Andante molto cantabile ed espressivo

Frédéric Chopin (1810–1849), Ballade No. 4, Op. 52

—intermission—

Gustav Mahler (1860–1911)/ Vyacheslav Gryaznov (1982), Adagietto from Symphony No. 5 transcribed for left hand alone

Aleksandr Scriabin (1872–1915), Prelude and Nocturne for the left hand, Op. 9

Felix Blumenfeld (1863–1931), Etude for the Left-Hand, Op. 36

Aleksandr Scriabin, Three Pieces, Op. 45
I. Feuilliet d´album

Aleksandr Scriabin, Sonata No. 4 Op. 30
I. Andante
II. Prestissimo volando

After hearing pianist Rafael Lipstein play, Martha Argerich remarked: “When Lipstein plays, the piano simply sings”, highlighting his artistry and emotional depth. A German-Argentine virtuoso, Lipstein has graced the stages of prestigious concert halls worldwide, including the Oriental Art Center in Shanghai, Cologne Philharmonic, Herkulessaal in Munich, the Tonhalle Düsseldorf and many more.

Beginning his musical journey at the early age of 4 with the violin, Lipstein shifted to the piano at age 11, studying under his father, Leopoldo Lipstein. His talent was recognized early, and by age 14, he was accepted into Prof. Pavel Gililov’s class. Further honing his skills with celebrated pianists Robert Durso, Gabriela Montero, Claudio Martinez Mehner, he also had the privilege of collaborating with luminaries such as Martha Argerich, Ivry Gitlis, and Maria Joao Pires. Renowned as the “Prince of the Pianists” (Beijing), the press has praised Lipstein’s “exceptional talent with great virtuosity and remarkable charisma” (Die Welt), and noted, “His fingers are like a sacred fire that burns on the keys” (Shanghai). Audiences celebrate his performances with fervor, underscoring his ability to connect with listeners on a profound level.

A notable aspect of Lipstein’s artistry is his extensive repertoire for the left hand alone, which he has showcased in various recitals. This specialization not only highlights his technical prowess but also his innovative approach to piano literature as he also commissioned new works for the left hand.

Academically, Lipstein expanded his musical understanding by studying Musical Physiology at the ZHDK in Zurich. He applies this knowledge in his pedagogical work at the Zakhar Bron School of Music in Zurich, where he has successfully nurtured numerous prize-winning students, reflecting his commitment to developing the next generation of musicians. Lipstein’s competitive achievements include over 25 national and international prizes, with notable successes at competitions such as the Suzhou International China Piano Competition, Russian Music Competition Sanremo, Berlin International Music Competition, Concours Flame in Paris, and the Cyprus International Piano Competition, among many others. In addition to his solo work, Lipstein is an active chamber musician, regularly performing with his brother, cellist Manuel Lipstein, and various violinists.

As noted by the German newspaper Die Welt, “This is definitely just the beginning of a great career!”

Admission free.

In collaboration with: Vila Vipolže, Občina Brda