From heartbreak to springlike happiness, Cédric Tiberghien gives his insights into Mozart’s Piano Concerto No.23.
Do you have any favourite moments in Mozart’s Piano Concerto No.23?
That is a hard a question as the whole concerto is pure magic…. Obviously the slow movement with its solo introduction and then the most heartbreaking orchestra response… I love very much, towards the end of this movement, the use of pizzicato, very delicate and touching. But I must confess my favourite spot is the opening of the last movement – is there any happier overture, full of spring and happiness?
I must confess my favourite spot is the opening of the last movement - is there any happier overture, full of spring and happiness?
Where do you find inspiration outside of music, and how does this influence your artistry?
I feed myself with beauty, wherever I can find it: paintings, architecture, landscapes (when hiking), books. And for my concentration, sport is necessary (running or climbing).
Tell us about your approach to interpreting works by Mozart.
For me, Mozart is all about simplicity, energy, articulation and singing. The difficulty is to combine all those fields in a natural way. Playing a few concertos on a fortepiano with my friends from Chiaroscuro Quartet was a revelation, giving sense to so many elements, especially accompaniment figures…. And obviously, you need to see Mozart concertos as pure chamber music works, with dialogues between all the members, in particular with the wind section. What a pleasure!
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