This week’s Music at Lunchtime recital featured Tomas (F6) on piano, taking the audience on an engaging journey through music spanning three centuries—from Classical charm to the boldness of the 20th century.
The programme began with the final movement from Mozart’s Piano Sonata No. 11 in A major, K. 331—better known as the Rondo alla Turca. Although officially titled Allegretto, this sparkling piece is famous for its lively rhythms and colourful evocation of Ottoman Janissary music. With its driving march-like pulse and bold octave passages, it’s easy to see why this piece has remained so popular. Tomas played it with great style and energy, capturing both its precision and sense of fun.
A change of pace came with Schumann’s Romance in F-sharp major, Op. 28 No. 2. Written as a wedding gift for his wife, Clara, the piece is full of warmth and tenderness. The flowing melody, closely shadowed a third below, gives the impression of two voices always moving together—an image that beautifully reflects its origin. Tomas brought a lovely sense of lyricism and care to this performance, making it a touching moment in the programme.
Next was Chopin’s Prelude in A-flat major, Op. 28 No. 17, a personal favourite of Tomas’s. Though not explicitly about love, the piece was played with such feeling and sensitivity that it seemed to tell a romantic story. The soft, fluttering quavers that begin and end the piece suggested a beating heart, while the flowing main melody had all the warmth of a quiet confession. Tomas’s natural musicality really shone through here, especially in his expressive shaping and use of rubato.
The recital ended with the fireworks of Khachaturian’s Toccata, a bold and rhythmic work that stood in striking contrast to the earlier pieces. With its punchy repeated notes, syncopation, and dramatic character, the piece offered a real showcase of 20th-century piano writing. Particularly memorable were the fast-moving rhythms in the middle section, including some fiendishly tricky groupings in 5, 9, and 10. Tomas handled it all with confidence and flair, finishing the recital on an electrifying note.
Well done to Tomas for an outstanding and varied performance.
The recording from this week’s concert is available online here.
Our next Music at Lunchtime recital will be on Wednesday 14 May 2025 and feature Form 6 pupil Natalie performing music for piano by Beethoven & Chopin.
