Igor Levit’s Virtually Gilmore Performance Returns to YouTube Through June 10

May 14, 2020

view of igor levit performing seen through the back of a camera

For two weeks this spring, The Gilmore presented Virtually Gilmore, a series of online performances that showcased some of our most memorable artists. The series concluded on May 5, with a virtuoso live stream performance by 2018 Gilmore Artist Igor Levit. Consisting of three Beethoven sonatas, the emotionally-charged performance attracted a live global audience of thousands, and in the 24 hours it remained online it quickly became the most-watched video on The Gilmore’s YouTube channel. The response was so overwhelming, Mr. Levit and his recording company, Sony Classical International, allowed a portion of the performance to be reposted through June 10.

“In the end this is what remains, life affirmation; hope, beauty, joy. That is what I wanted to play tonight.”

Igor Levit, f
rom his remarks preceding the May 5 performance

The excerpt selected is Beethoven’s Sonata in C Minor, Op. 111, one of the most expressive works ever composed for the piano. Performed by Mr. Levit with incredible skill and a rare depth of emotion, Op. 111, the great composer’s final sonata, is a piece that many listeners will find particularly meaningful today.

The performance will be available on the Gilmore YouTube page now through June 10, then removed permanently. For future listening, please consider Mr. Levit’s recording “Beethoven: Complete Piano Sonatas,” (Sony) which is available on CD and vinyl, for streaming, and download.

The Gilmore extends its thanks to Igor Levit, Sony Classical International, and b-sharp Studios. Special thanks to our sponsor, the Fetzer Institute, for making the Igor Levit live stream performance possible.

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