Maria Joao Pires, Wigmore Hall

Maria Joao Pires, the great Portuguese pianist, turns 70 this year. There are plenty of celebratory events lined up, but we’re particularly looking forward to her appearance at the Wigmore Hall in October, when she’ll be performing Beethoven’s piano trios in D and Bb (known as the “Ghost” and the “Archduke” respectively). 
These bound to be special concerts. Pires is a virtuoso of the first rank, with a dazzling record as a soloist, but she’s also a dedicated chamber musician, capable of tremendous collaborative sensitivity. She’s bringing two long-time accomplices with her – violinist Augustin Dumay and cellist Antonio Meneses.
It was arguably in Beethoven’s hands that the piano trio reached full maturity. These are challenging pieces, richly textured and emotionally complex. Their nicknames illustrate the difference between them: while the “Ghost” is known for its eerie second movement, the “Archduke” is bold and magisterial, so it will be an evening of thrilling contrasts. With such distinguished musicians on board, and with the Wigmore Hall’s intimate acoustic enhancing their artistry, this is the perfect opportunity to hear these great works in all their glory.