Pieter Grobler recital at Endler Hall

Renowned South African pianist Pieter Grobler returns to the Endler Hall for a special recital dedicated to the music of Robert Schumann.

Grobler, an Associate Professor of Piano at Stellenbosch University, will offer a nuanced exploration of Schumann’s genius, from his well-loved works to lesser-known gems.

The programme will feature two of Schumann’s masterpieces, Carnival Opus 9 and Fantasy Opus 17, complimented with lesser-known songs, transcribed late in life in the expert hand of Franz Liszt, together with other treasures.

Grobler, who has long been captivated by Schumann’s imagination and mastery of the piano, notes: “Although Schumann was never able to realise his dream of becoming a concert pianist, it strikes you how well he must have understood the piano as an instrument when you work on his music.

“This allowed him to be incredibly imaginative in his piano compositions. Ultimately, the music is full of (sometimes shocking) contrasts that work in the moment, interesting rhythms and textures, as well as rich lyrical harmony.”

He continues: “In all his piano music, phrasing and voicing are an enormous challenge that cannot happen without hours of experimentation. It may be this experimentation process to bring the work to life that I find so creative.”

Grobler explains why he selected these specific works: “Along with the two major works from his most famous era of piano music, I have a solo from a late choral work, as well as an art song that he wrote as part of a collection to train singers with.

“Schumann was very effective as a composer and although his later work suffers from (sometimes lazy) criticism that he has lost inspiration, this may also be because he constantly writes differently throughout his career depending on the purpose of the music.

“Liszt must also have understood the value of this by transcribing it for solo piano after Schumann's death.”

Grobler’s performance will provide an insightful and engaging journey through Schumann’s musical world, as he brings to life works that range from the familiar to the obscure, each one filled with the emotional richness and complexity that define the Romantic era.

Tickets are available through Webtickets and at the door.