Igor Levit, piano (Baltimore Debut)

Igor Levit makes his long-awaited Baltimore debut in a solo recital devoted entirely to Beethoven. The program spans the composer’s early, middle, and mature periods, including the dramatic “Tempest” Sonata and the heroic “Waldstein” Sonata.

Levit is celebrated for exceptional technique, intellectual depth, and distinctive musicianship. His work also reflects a broad engagement with contemporary social issues and civic life. The German pianist received the Gilmore Artist Award in 2018, became co-artistic director of the Heidelberger Frühling Musikfestival in 2022–23, and is a professor of piano at Hanover’s University for Music, Theatre, and Media. He has recorded Beethoven’s complete piano sonatas and is scheduled to return to the cycle in a series of performances marking the 200th anniversary of Beethoven’s death.

When: November 1, 2026

Pre-concert talk: Christopher Ciampoli of The Peabody Institute leads a pre-concert talk at 4:30 p.m. in Shriver Hall.

Performance length: Approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes, including intermission.

Program: Ludwig van Beethoven, Sonata No. 1 in F minor, Op. 2, No. 1; Sonata No. 17 in D minor, Op. 31, No. 2, “Tempest”; Sonata No. 25 in G major, Op. 79; and Sonata No. 21 in C major, Op. 53, “Waldstein.”

Program notes: The recital traces Beethoven’s development from the turbulent early Op. 2 Sonata through the concentrated drama of the “Tempest,” the concise and playful Op. 79 Sonata, and the expansive, technically demanding “Waldstein.” The “Tempest” is known for its stormy atmosphere, dramatic contrasts, and fantasia-like episodes, while the “Waldstein” is associated with Beethoven’s emerging heroic style and innovative treatment of the sonata form.

Performer: Igor Levit, piano.

Venue: Shriver Hall, 3400 N. Charles St., Suite 14, Baltimore, MD 21218-2698.

Tickets: Price not available.

Note: The program is subject to change without notice.

Contact: Shriver Hall Concert Series, 410-516-7164; info@shriverconcerts.org.