German pianist Elisabeth Brauss debuts on The Gilmore’s Rising Stars Series on March 9, 2025, at Wellspring Theater in Kalamazoo. Her performance spans three centuries, exploring themes of departure, absence, and return through four distinct works. A first-prize winner at the International Steinway Competition, Brauss has collaborated with major European orchestras and focuses on technical precision and historical context.

Program Overview

J.S. Bach’s Capriccio in B-flat Major, BWV 992

One of Bach’s few programmatic works, this six-movement piece follows a departure narrative, incorporating rhetorical gestures like lamenting lines and fugal horn calls. While often linked to his brother’s departure for Sweden, scholars question this connection, noting similarities to Johann Kuhnau’s biblical sonatas. Brauss must balance expressive elements without over-embellishing the Baroque style.

Beethoven’s Sonata in E-flat Major, Op. 81a (“Les Adieux”)

Written during Napoleon’s 1809 attack on Vienna, this three-movement sonata (*Lebewohl-Abwesenheit-Wiedersehen*) reflects Archduke Rudolph’s exile and return. Beethoven’s use of unresolved harmonies and shifting rhythms demands precision and restraint, with the final movement’s rapid 6/8 meter requiring both technical control and emotional clarity.

Schumann’s Theme and Variations in E-flat Major for piano, WoO. 24 (“Ghost” Variations)

Schumann’s final piano work, written days before his institutionalization, reworks a theme in five variations. The interplay of clarity and dissonance reflects his declining mental state. Brauss must navigate the work’s structure while acknowledging its emotional depth. Clara Schumann received the manuscript just before her husband’s confinement, adding historical weight to its performance.

Prokofiev’s Piano Sonata No. 7 in B-flat Major, Op. 83

This wartime sonata, part of Prokofiev’s “War Sonatas,” is driven by rhythmic intensity and dissonant harmonies. The final *Precipitato* movement, played at a relentless pace, demands endurance and precision. Stalin Prize jurors viewed the piece as optimistic, but modern interpretations highlight its darker undertones.

Brauss’ Artistic Profile

Repertoire and Interpretation Style

Since winning the 2016 Steinway Competition, Brauss has established herself with a repertoire emphasizing structure and clarity. Her performances focus on narrative cohesion rather than virtuosity, aligning with artists like Igor Levit who use recitals for thematic storytelling.

Concert Details

The concert begins at 4 pm, with tickets at $28 for adults and $10 for students (ages 7 and up). Free parking is available in the Epic Center Parking Ramp for easy access. After the performance, patrons are invited to a complimentary reception—a great chance to mingle, discuss the music, and enjoy the evening’s experience. LEARN MORE