”Bates gave the pianist lots of presence, both in technically showy flourishes as well as stretches of spare, crystalline introspection […] It had, for want of a better term, story. Every listener will have a personal reaction, of course, but Bates’ great strength is that he writes in a clear, personal voice, which to these ears often echoes the best of film-score writing. The sensation of a carefree Saturday morning came to mind in the first movement. But then there are sections of complexity you’d like to examine over and over, like the one later in the first movement from the piano-alone music to the orchestral climax.”
”Bates composed the concerto during the pandemic with Trifonov in mind. Seldom have composer and artist been so suited to each other. Trifonov and the orchestra tapped ideas across an invisible musical tennis net and intertwined themes with the sleek grace of snakes in a caduceus.”
“Stunning. Staggering. Stupendous…Deserving these accolades and more is Mason Bates’ three-movement Piano Concerto…”
“Bates’ Piano Concerto Honors Era of Virtuoso […] Besides knowing how to write for a pianist of extreme virtuosity, the 44-year-old composer keeps even his most terse melodic ideas from wearing thin, thanks to framing them in an optimum harmonic environment. Nobody of his generation can build a movement so effectively. Most important, he knows when to stop.”
Mason Bates’ Piano concerto was co-commissioned by the orchestra and the San Francisco Symphony, conducted by Philadelphia music director Yannick Nézet-Séguin, and written for pianist Daniil Trifonov. Bates’ Piano Concerto premiered with the Philadelphia Orchestra on January 14 2022.
Additional performances
New Jersey Symphony on March 10, 11, 12 & 13
Israel Philharmonic on March 25
San Francisco Symphony on June 2, 3, 4 & 5 (co-commissioner)
The work will be broadcast on Philadelphia Orchestra’s Digital Stage on April 27 and May 4.
I attended Saturday’s performance on the 15th of January and was so moved by the music. It was a healing for humanity to receive this gift. Considering his pacing in the barn as he composed this piece, I think Mason Bates should name it THE PACING WISDOM HEART CONCERTO.The Orchestra was precise and precious in its care for each note .Danil Trifanove hovered over the keys with silent conversation, surely thanking the notes for presenting themselves in perfect pitch and tenderness. Thank you to each member and the great conductor, Yannick who drove them madly through the straights of agony and into the arena of “all is well.”I eagerly await all the great creations to come from this family of serious simple love.
In gratitude ,Cathleen
Thank you for your kind words Cathleen – so thankful you enjoyed the premiere