Ebony and ivory

Fali Pavri

After his last concert in 2017, pianist Fali Pavri is back in the city to conduct a solo concert, The Last Sonatas, playing the works of Beethoven, Haydn and Schubert that were composed at their pinnacle as masters of their art. Pavri says, "These are three of the finest pieces of music written for piano by three of the greatest musicians. I wanted to play something special for this concert in Mumbai as it's been a while since I've played here, and these pieces are very close to my heart."

As is the nature of music to move us, you will find resonance with these pieces, too, titled - Haydn: Sonata in E-flat Hob XVI:52, Beethoven: Sonata No. 32 in C minor, Op. 111, Schubert: Sonata in B-flat major, D960. Pavri, who is the associate head of keyboard and professor of piano at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, tells us that each of the works speak of universal human experiences. Offering us a deeper explanation, he says, "The last sonata of Beethoven is about human struggle and overcoming adversity. It then transcends to spiritual heights, a transformation from the struggle to peace and serenity - a glimpse of heaven. Schubert conveys a very personal journey; and dance, song, grief, loneliness, happiness - all human emotions are encapsulated in this vast musical landscape."

Over the last two years, music events and informal concerts were cancelled, live-streamed or recorded and played later. Pavri speaks about the charm and importance of live music, explaining that at a live concert, one can watch the performer with others tuning in to the same music. This adds a third dimension to the whole performance and lends a shared experience to the community. He continues, "From the performer's point of view, it's important to play live for people because it's a way to connect with your audience; that connection reflects in the way one plays. It's a two-way street of give and take between the audience and performer."

If you have ever felt intimidated by the music of Western canon, unable to approach it and unsure how to experience concerts live, Pavri reassures: "Close your eyes and open your ears to the music. You don't need to understand the music to enjoy it." He refers to music as a universal language where the art speaks for itself.

Encouraging listeners to experience the full benefit of the music, he suggests giving the pieces more than one listen. "In fact, the more you listen to a piece the more you'll get from it. It's a whole other world, and it's worth exploring," Pavri signs off.

On: April 19, 7 pm
At: Experimental Theatre, NCPA
Cost: Rs 450 onwards