Oeuvre: Prélude en fa dièse mineur, Op.28 no.8

Murray Perahia’s programmes are always tidily thought through, exploring interrelationships between pieces and building progressively, often from Bach to Chopin via Beethoven. This was no different, with Bach and Chopin the bread to a sandwich of late Brahms and lesser-known Beethoven and Schubert. Though the Chopin was a little abrupt, this was a thorougly satisfying concert.

There was a distinct buzz in the air prior to this evening’s highly anticipated recital, a rare solo appearance by American pianist Murray Perahia. His recital at the Barbican Hall sold out months ago, with tickets selling fast before the programme had even been announced.