EIF 26: Steven Osborne

Steven Osborne performs works by Alfred Brendel’s beloved Schubert, alongside contemporary gems from Scottish composers James MacMillan and Judith Weir

Steven Osborne has described Alfred Brendel’s recordings as ‘one of the formative influences of my childhood’. In this tribute to the great pianist, Osborne – acclaimed for his ‘musical intelligence and reflective grace’ (The Herald) – pairs late works by Brendel’s beloved Franz Schubert with short contemporary compositions.  

Schubert’s Piano Sonata in C minor, D958, is among several masterpieces written in the final months of his life. This highly dramatic piece closes with a wild, dance-like finale. Osborne also performs Schubert’s luminous Four Impromptus, songs from Schubert’s final collection, Schwanengesang (Swan Song), and an unfinished Allegretto that Osborne has himself completed.

Bookending these expansive works are James MacMillan’s playful Lumen Christi, inspired by an Easter chant, and Judith Weir’s affectionate tribute to her composer friend Steven Stucky, Chorale, for Steve.

Presented by Edinburgh International Festival