This week’s Music at Lunchtime recital featured Natalie (F6) on piano, performing a well-considered programme that moved from Classical elegance to Romantic depth, ending with a lively duet. It marked her first solo appearance in the series, and she played with quiet confidence and a thoughtful approach to each piece.
The recital opened with the first movement of Beethoven’s Sonatina in G major, Op. 49 No. 2. Full of charm and classical balance, this miniature sonata begins with a bright, lyrical theme and unfolds with clarity and poise. Natalie gave a neat and musical reading of the Allegro, ma non troppo, allowing its cheerful character to come through with ease and simplicity.
A change in mood followed with Chopin’s Prelude in D-flat major, Op. 28 No. 15 – often referred to as the “Raindrop” Prelude. Natalie shaped the flowing outer sections with delicacy, allowing the repeated A-flat note to gently pulse beneath the texture. The middle section brought a clear contrast in tone, with greater weight and intensity, which she handled with control and sensitivity before returning to the calm of the opening.
Remaining with Chopin, Natalie played the Nocturne in E minor, Op. 72 No. 1. This reflective, lyrical work requires a subtle balance of line and expression, and she brought out its melodic shape and inner shifts with a quiet expressiveness. The flowing accompaniment and graceful ornaments were gently drawn, giving the piece an intimate, song-like quality.
To end the recital on a celebratory note, Natalie was joined by Head of Piano, Anne Bolt, for a duet version of Tchaikovsky’s Waltz from The Sleeping Beauty, arranged by Rachmaninov. The music sparkled with lightness and grace, and both pianists played with a lovely sense of collaboration, capturing the elegance and sweep of this familiar waltz.
This was a confident and musically engaging debut from Natalie, who brought care and character to each piece she performed.
The recording from this week’s concert is available online here.
Our next Music at Lunchtime recital will be on Wednesday 21 May 2025 and feature Form 4 pupil Isabelle performing music for piano by Bach, Debussy, Farrenc & Rachmaninov.
