Get ready for a night of pure classical magic as French cello superstar Gautier Capuçon teams up with piano virtuoso Frank Braley to perform Beethoven’s complete cello sonatas. Known for their electrifying chemistry and flawless technique, this duo will bring the iconic composer’s masterpieces to life at the Shanghai Oriental Art Center.

Program:

• Beethoven: Sonata for Cello and Piano No. 1 in F Major, Op. 5 No. 1

• Beethoven: Sonata for Cello and Piano No. 4 in C Major, Op. 102 No. 1

• Beethoven: Sonata for Cello and Piano No. 2 in G Minor, Op. 5 No. 2

• Beethoven: Sonata for Cello and Piano No. 3 in A Major, Op. 69

• Beethoven: Sonata for Cello and Piano No. 5 in D Major, Op. 102 No. 2

Program is subject to change.

Gautier Capuçon – Cello

Gautier Capuçon is one of the most acclaimed cellists of his generation, celebrated for his expressive artistry and dynamic technique. A multiple award-winner, including the French Diapason d’Or and Echo Klassik Awards, he performs on a 1701 Matteo Goffriller cello, whose rich tone complements his playing perfectly. Beyond the stage, Capuçon is deeply committed to music education and supporting young talent. He founded the Gautier Capuçon Foundation in 2022 and launched "A French Summer", a series of free concerts bringing music to communities across France. He also serves as an ambassador for the "Orchestra in Schools" initiative, introducing classical music to over 42,000 students.

Each season, Capuçon collaborates with the world’s top orchestras and conductors, such as Riccardo Chailly, Gustavo Dudamel, and Christian Thielemann. In the 2024/25 season, he will perform with ensembles like the Vienna Philharmonic, Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra, and Philadelphia Orchestra. He will also embark on a European tour with the La Scala Philharmonic and participate in a chamber music tour marking the 50th anniversary of Shostakovich's death, alongside Evgeny Kissin, Gidon Kremer, and Maxim Rysanov. Capuçon’s dedication to both performance and education solidifies his role as a leading figure in classical music today.

Frank Braley – Piano

Frank Braley, the 1991 Queen Elisabeth Competition winner, is a celebrated French pianist known for his poetic and deeply expressive interpretations, particularly of Beethoven’s works. With over 20 albums to his name, including two Diapason d’Or awards, Braley has established himself as a leading figure in classical music. A professor at the Paris Conservatoire and former music director of the Royal Chamber Orchestra of Wallonia, Belgium, he balances performance with education, inspiring the next generation of musicians.

Braley has performed worldwide with renowned orchestras such as the London Philharmonic, Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra, and Boston Symphony, collaborating with conductors like Charles Dutoit, Kurt Masur, and Neville Marriner. A sought-after chamber musician, he has partnered with artists including Gautier Capuçon, Maria João Pires, and Mischa Maisky. His acclaimed recordings, such as the complete Beethoven cello sonatas with Capuçon, showcase his technical brilliance and profound musicality. Braley’s career is a testament to his versatility and dedication to both solo and collaborative performance.

• Jazz & Concerts