Alfred Brendel was a much-loved performer at the Edinburgh International Festival for 40 years. His former student, Paul Lewis, reflects Brendel’s influence through his ‘unshowy, deeply considered interpretations,’ (The Times). Now a leading pianist of his generation, Lewis has described Brendel as an ‘endless source of inspiration’.  

Brendel had a particular affinity with Mozart, whom he termed ‘one of the most sensuous composers ever’ (The New Yorker). Fittingly, Lewis includes two Mozart sonatas in his programme. K333 is full of songlike charm and high spirits, while K570 anticipates the composer’s great final opera The Magic Flute in its mixture of wit and profundity. 

Lewis has also chosen Carl Maria von Weber’s sunny and expansive Sonata in A flat – which Brendel essentially rediscovered – and three miniature masterpieces by Frédéric Chopin – his heartfelt Nocturnes and impassioned Polonaise. 

Multibuy Offer

Elevate your August mornings. Buy tickets for three or more morning concerts at The Queen’s Hall and get 20% off. Excludes top price tickets (price bands A and J) and concessions.

What to expect at The Queen's Hall

Tune out the outside world and let morning recitals encircle you in rich concentration. This is the atmosphere where world-class chamber music thrives. 

Please ensure your phone is turned off during the performance. If you need help, please ask a friendly member of staff.

Part of our tribute to the late, great pianist Alfred Brendal.