Paul Lewis, a pianist of “intelligence and intensity” (The Guardian), makes his long-awaited return to 92Y in a program which includes some of his specialties.

The sturm und drang of middle-period Haydn begins the program, before moving to the wintery resignation of late Brahms, the Op. 117 set of Intermezzi which Brahms called “lullabies.” After intermission, one of the greatest piano pieces of all time: Beethoven’s “Diabelli” Variations. These 33 variations on a humble waltz by the music publisher and composer Anton Diabelli are perhaps the summit of Beethoven’s art: wit, virtuosity, sentimentality, soul-stirring beauty, and technical wizardry are set side by side.

Haydn, Piano Sonata in E Minor, Hob. XVI:34
Brahms, Three Intermezzi, Op. 117
Beethoven, 33 Variations in C on a Waltz by Diabelli, Op. 120