The immensely versatile and internationally lauded pianist and conductor Ian Hobson, whose playing has been described by Gramophone as “intensely alive to expressive nuance, textural clarity and elastic shaping,” continues his Robert Schumann Cycle recital series on Friday evening, November 15, 2024, at 7:00 p.m., at New York’s Tenri Cultural Institute. The Schumann Cycle is devoted to the composer’s entire solo piano and chamber works with piano.

Entitled Visions of Youth, the full program follows:

Album für die Jugend (Album for the Yong), Op. 68

Drei Sonatan for die Jugend (Three Piano Sonatas for the Young), Op. 118

Kinderszenen (Scenes from Childhood), Op. 15

Commenting on Mr. Hobosn’s Humoreske in his last Schumann Cycle concert in April 2023, Harry Rolnick wrote in ConcertoNet: “This was also Ian Hobson at his greatest. Not monumental pianism, not pictures of corteges or romance. Rather, Mr. Hobson was able to tie each short section together, as if foreordained.” (April 21, 2023)

Pianist and conductor Ian Hobson—called “powerful and persuasive” by The New York Times— is recognized internationally for his command of an extraordinarily comprehensive repertoire, his consummate performances of the Romantic masters, his deft and idiomatic readings of neglected piano music old and new, and his assured conducting from both the piano and the podium. As of September 2023, Maestro Hobson has been appointed Guest Conductor of the esteemed Sinfonia Varsovia.

Reviewing the latest solo piano recital in this Schumann Cycle, Walter Aparicio of New yOrk Concert Review had this to say: “Each movement [of Scherzo, Gigue, Romanza, und Fughette, Op. 32] was portrayed with a clear and distinct character by Mr. Hobson, and he maintained unity by emphasizing the continuous dotted rhythms throughout the work. Particularly notable was the third movement, Romanze, which embodied Schumann’s signature blend of heroism and passion. Mr. Hobson navigated its contrasting B-section with tender precision, seamlessly returning to the main thematic material. The final movement, Fughette, was surprisingly emotive and beautifully handled by Mr. Hobson.” He concluded his article on a high note: “Mr. Hobson also treated us to a program full of passion, vigor, and commitment.” (May 10, 2024)