Chongqing - On the evening of October 8th, the renowned Chinese pianist Zhang Haochen graced the stage at the Chongqing Grand Theatre, delivering a captivating piano solo performance. 

With his unique touch, rich tonal variations, and delicate emotional expressions, Zhang brought Beethoven's experiences during his middle to late years, where he overcame challenges, faced turning points, and achieved self-transcendence to life through his piano keys.

On the evening of October 8th, the renowned pianist Zhang Haochen graces the stage at the Chongqing Grand Theatre, delivering a captivating piano solo performance. (Photo/Chongqing Grand Theatre)

Zhang and renowned pianist Lang Lang share the same mentorship lineage. The former made his mark by securing the top spot at the Curtis Institute of Music at 15. In 2009, he became the first Asian to claim victory at the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition, and in 2017, he received the prestigious Avery Fisher Career Grant.

Zhang expressed his intention to lead the audience deep into the inner world of the musical genius, Beethoven, by performing four compositions from the later period of Beethoven's life. "Though these works were composed centuries ago, the moment they resonate in the theater, they belong to the present, capable of stirring resonance and empowerment among the audience."

Beethoven, often regarded as the epitome of classical style and the pioneer of romanticism, faced multiple challenges in his later years, including deafness and financial hardships. Nevertheless, his unwavering dedication to music remained constant. Starting in 1816, he continued weaving complex musical works in graphic notation to create vivid "musical novels" through a spatial and architectural perspective. His life experiences injected his works with unique charisma and an innovative spirit.

The performance began at 7:30 PM with the serene yet profound "Piano Sonata No. 24 in F-sharp Major," drawing the audience into the musician's profound contemplations. This was followed by "Piano Sonata No. 29 in B-flat Major, Hammerklavier," one of the largest sonatas in music history, known for its distinctive hammer klavier effects, which showcased Zhang's mastery over the piano keys. "Piano Sonata No. 30 in E Major" and "Piano Sonata No. 32 in C Minor" seamlessly blended Beethoven's late-life passion and introspection. 

Throughout the performance, Zhang's playing alternated between tender and sincere, expertly presenting Beethoven's boundless courage and persistence born from adversity, all while offering profound insights into the music.

The renowned pianist Zhang Haochen took his bow after the performance. (Photo/Yang Xiao)

After the performance, Liu Qin, an enthusiast, expressed her thoughts, "Each of these timeless masterpieces narrates Beethoven's different emotions and thoughts at the time." 

"Beethoven's moving compositions, written during his deafness, allowed the audience to 'see a starry sky' through the music," Liu Qin continued. "We are truly grateful to this young and accomplished pianist for bringing us such a moving experience transcending time and space."