Against the intimate backdrop of St. George’s Basilica cloister, Aula Msgr Farrugia provided an intimate, yet grand setting for a lunchtime concert that was nothing short of mesmerising. Pianists Franco Foderà and Giovanna Mirrione (Italy), captivated the audience with their seamless collaboration and expressive artistry, bringing the magic of four-hands piano to life with an electrifying program spanning centuries and styles. The artists were introduced by Dr John Galea, the artistic director of Chorus Urbanus Productions, that are the driving force behind Feel the Magic 2025-27 (3rd cycle) supported by Arts Council Malta, Ministry for Gozo ICOG Scheme and APS Bank.
The concert began with the effervescent overture from Mozart’s ‘Le Nozze di Figaro’, a perfect introduction that set a buoyant and energetic tone. The pianists navigated its intricate interplay with impeccable precision, immediately drawing the audience into their musical conversation. The charm continued with Rossini’s ‘Il Barbiere di Siviglia’, where Foderà and Mirrione infused the piece with playfulness and lively phrasing, expertly mirroring the opera’s comedic essence.
From classical elegance to folk-inspired vigour, the duo seamlessly transitioned into Brahms’ ‘Hungarian Dances no. 2 & no. 5’. Their interpretation brimmed with fiery passion and rhythmic drive, embracing the spirit of Hungarian folk music with the duo’s dazzling execution. The contrast was then beautifully set by Fauré’s ‘Pavan op.50’, a graceful interlude of delicate lyricism, unfolding like a whispered reverie through their sensitive touch.
Venturing into contemporary territory, the program took an unexpected yet delightful turn with Christopher Norton’s ‘Latin Duets’. This piece radiated with vibrant, sun-drenched energy where buoyant rhythms and rich harmonies evoked a festive spirit that had the audience imagining lively street celebrations and intimate gatherings filled with warmth and colour. The duo’s dynamic touch brought an irresistible charm to these duets, balancing intricate interplay with a joyous spirit.
Further expanding the modern palette, Norton’s ‘Rock Duets’ burst onto the scene, infusing raw energy and a touch of rebellion into the performance. Here, Foderà and Mirrione seamlessly integrated classical precision with the edgy pulse of rock influences. The bold syncopations and driving dynamics provided a refreshing contrast to the earlier works, inviting listeners to experience a merging of time-honoured technique with contemporary verve.
Injecting a splash of tropical flair, Benjamin’s Jamaican Rumba added a delightful rhythmic twist, as the pianists embodied its lively pulse with effortless charm. Piazzolla’s music carries an unparalleled emotional weight—an amalgam of melancholy, passion, and defiant celebration all wrapped into intricate melodies that speak directly to the duo’s soul. Piazzolla’s ‘Oblivion’ and ‘Libertango’ proved to be another highlight where melancholy and longing gave way to raw, rhythmic intensity. The duo embraced the sultry, emotive power of tango, drawing the audience deeper into their impassioned performance. In stark contrast, Libertango offered scope for a burst of liberated energy, a musical rebellion that shatters expectations and stirs the spirit! The driving rhythms, unexpected syncopations, and vibrant dynamic shifts created an exhilarating tension.
The grand finale was nothing short of spectacular—Khachaturian’s Sabre Dance exploded from the piano with virtuosic speed and precision, a thrilling climax that left the audience breathless. Foderà and Mirrione’s synchronization was impeccable, their energy relentless, bringing the concert to a breathtaking close.
Throughout the performance, the synergy between the two musicians was undeniable. Their ability to convey emotion, technical mastery, and a deep connection to the music created a truly unforgettable experience. The audience, enraptured, responded with enthusiastic applause demanding encores, that bore a tangible witness to a performance that transcended mere notes and became a celebration of musical artistry.
With Feel the Magic of Four-Hands Piano, Foderà and Mirrione delivered more than a recital; they invited listeners into a world of musical storytelling, where every piece was a new adventure. It was an extraordinary lunchtime concert, indeed.
Particular thanks go to St George’s Basilica, in particular Canon George Frendo and Archpriest Msgr Joseph Curmi.
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