On Sunday, October 27th at 4:00 PM, the Kapucijnenkerk in Oostende will host a special musical experience. De Grote Post is breathing new life into an old tradition with the series 'Recital op zondag', where top musicians present their self-chosen programmes in an intimate setting. To kick off the series, talented violinist Júlia Pusker, known as laureate of the Queen Elisabeth Competition for violin in 2019, takes the stage accompanied by pianist Renata Konyicska. Together they present a sparkling recital featuring works by Schubert, Beethoven and Bartók.
A Sunday recital full of atmosphere and sound
The 'Recital op zondag' concert series offers music lovers the chance to experience top-level soloists up close. The historic Kapucijnenkerk, with its characteristic fishermen's church architecture, creates a natural acoustics that amplifies the music without artificial amplification. This serene space provides the ideal setting for a recital where intimacy and musical expression are paramount.
For the first concert of the series, Júlia Pusker has been invited. She gained international recognition through her captivating performances at the Queen Elisabeth Competition. Together with Hungarian pianist Renata Konyicska, she takes the audience on a musical journey through time and styles.
The programme: Schubert, Beethoven and Bartók
The afternoon begins with Franz Schubert's Rondo Brillante in B-flat minor, D. 895, a work known for its virtuosity and charm. In this piece, Schubert interweaves romantic expression with technical exuberance, an ideal work for an intimate venue like the Kapucijnenkerk.
Next on the programme is Beethoven's Violin Sonata No. 9, Op. 47, also known as the 'Kreutzer Sonata'. This masterpiece is one of Beethoven's longest and most dramatic violin sonatas. The complex structure and intense expression make the Kreutzer Sonata a challenging composition in which the violinist and pianist must create a dynamic and energetic interplay. The work tells a story of struggle, harmony and ultimately reconciliation.
The programme concludes with Bartók's Rhapsody No. 1 for violin and piano, Sz. 87. Bartók wrote this work in the nineteen-thirties, inspired by Hungarian folk music. The rhapsody is full of passion and rhythmic vitality, with expressive passages that emphasize the unique tonal colours of the violin and piano. For Pusker and Konyicska, both with Hungarian roots, this piece offers the opportunity to let their cultural heritage shine through in their playing.
A preview in Music Matters
For those who want to get an impression of Pusker's virtuosity beforehand, there is a recent excerpt from the programme Music Matters on Klara. In the broadcast of 24/10/2024, Olav Grondelaers discusses the concert 'Recital op zondag' and plays the performance of Carmen: Fantaisie Brillante Op. 3 No. 3 by Júlia Pusker. Fast-forwarding to 40 minutes and 40 seconds takes you directly to this impressive performance and offers a preview of what visitors can expect in the Kapucijnenkerk.
A unique opportunity for enthusiasts
The chance to hear international soloists like Júlia Pusker in an intimate setting is a rarity. The concert promises to be an intense and captivating experience, where the boundary between audience and artist blurs through the special acoustics and proximity in the Kapucijnenkerk. With her strong interpretations and masterful technique, Pusker promises to enchant the audience with a performance in which passion and precision come together.