Championing repertoire for two pianists, brothers Lucas and Arthur Jussen offer a challenging program showcasing the range of possibilities: Mozart’s Sonata for Two Pianos in D Major, K. 448, Schubert’s Fantasy in F Minor, D. 940 for piano four hands, an arrangement of Stravinsky’s The Rite of Spring for two pianos, and Hanna Kulenty’s VAN… (2014), which allows for both options!

My preconcert talk will look at the history of these two “modalities” of writing music for two pianists and also consider the different genre types on the program: sonata, fantasy, piano transcription of an orchestral score, and—in the case of VAN…—a comparatively shorter programmatic work commissioned for a state occasion.

From the event web site:

Dutch brothers Lucas and Arthur Jussen have conquered the classical music scene with personality, charm, and exciting programs showcasing the unbreakable bond of their duets, whether on one piano or two. On their way to Carnegie Hall, the dynamic and charismatic brothers make their California debuts and demonstrate why Pianist magazine called them “a photogenic pair of musical wizards.”

“It is like driving a pair of BMWs,” remarked conductor Michael Schønwandt after directing the Dutch brothers Lucas (29) and Arthur Jussen (26). Despite their young ages, they have been part of the international concert world for years and are praised vigorously by both press and audience.