What You'll Hear

The concert opens with Beethoven’s Trio for Clarinet, Cello, and Piano in B-flat major, Op.11, a vibrant and expressive work showcasing the composer’s inventive writing and lyrical charm. The trio will be performed by Bailey and Pratt with VSO Principal Clarinetist Igor Shakhman, bringing depth and refinement to this beloved chamber piece.

The program continues with a collection of Brahm’s Hungarian Dances for piano four hands, performed by Dr. Michael C. Liu and Awadagin Pratt. These energetic and rhythmically driven works capture the spirit of folk-inspired melodies and provide a lively contrast to the classical elegance of Beethoven.

Following intermission, the evening concludes with Brahms’s Sonata No. 1 in E minor, Op. 38 for Cello and Piano, performed by Bailey and Pratt. Rich in texture and emotional depth, the sonata stands as one of Brahms’s most significant contributions to the chamber repertoire.

The 2026/27 Nien-Wei Hsiao Chamber Music Series is presented by OPB.