Since winning the prestigious Leeds International Piano Competition in 2018 at the age of 20, Eric Lu has enjoyed a busy international performing career as both a soloist and in concertos with leading orchestras and has released three albums. Praised for his “sensitive and emotionally intuitive” playing (BBC Music Magazine) and “simply astounding” artistry (Daily Telegraph, UK), he has put Schubert and Chopin at the centre of his programmes, captivating audiences with his special affinity for these composers. On October 4th, he brings his artistry to Hong Kong, making his highly anticipated HKU Muse debut.
Franz Schubert: Piano Sonata No. 20 in A Major, D. 959 – II. Andantino
We caught up with him ahead of his concert to find out more about the programme and what he is looking forward to in Hong Kong.
Tell us more about the programme. Why did you select these particular pieces?
Eric Lu
The programme is centred around two larger works by composers that are amongst the ones closest to me: Schubert and Chopin. All the Impromptus are masterpieces and such unbelievably beautiful music. I am excited to start bringing in the second set, Op. 142 into my performing repertoire. Chopin’s Third Piano Sonata needs no introduction. One of his greatest works, extremely well-conceived as a big-form piece, and inside containing every element that shows the genius of Chopin.
Frédéric Chopin: Piano Sonata No. 2 in B-Flat Minor, Op. 35, “Funeral March” – II. Scherzo (Eric Lu, piano)
The beginning of the programme is a Handel Suite, No. 5 in E major. I particularly love this work; it is so fresh, so pure. In a way very delightful, but it is beyond that… When I hear the Prelude and Allemande in particular, I am often very moved by how much the music speaks in a spiritual, but at the same time warm – and human – way.
What do you hope audiences will take away from your performance in Hong Kong?
Whilst many music lovers perhaps know these works well, I hope that they will take away something that can only be experienced in a live concert. The visceral and profound nature of these works never ceases to move and change me as a musician, and I hope that the audience in Hong Kong will take away perhaps something that they have not thought of or experienced before.
What do you do off stage that provides inspiration on stage?
I listen to a lot of recordings of various works frequently. Whether it be a Bach Cantata, Schubert Lieder, or Mozart Piano Concerto, etc. I always want to have music in my ears and somewhat subconsciously and consciously get deeper into the musical and emotional worlds of these great composers. Further, when I’m listening to a great piece of music whilst enjoying a beautiful part of nature, this inspires me the most.
What are you most looking forward to in your Hong Kong debut?
I have never been to Hong Kong before, only before transiting at the airport. I cannot wait to see and experience the city, particularly the food and its people.
You won the esteemed Leeds International Piano Competition in 2018. How has that achievement influenced your career since then?
It certainly gave me a big boost and opportunities to perform for more audiences and with many different great orchestras, conductors, musicians, etc.
Ludwig van Beethoven: Piano Concerto No. 4 in G Major, Op. 58 – II. Andante con moto (Eric Lu, piano; Hallé Orchestra; Edward Gardner, cond.)
What advice would you give to young musicians entering the competition circuit?
I don’t think I should be one to give much advice; however, I would simply say to always put the music, and your love and relationship to it first.
What next – would you like to tell us about future concerts/recordings/other plans?
Next year, I plan to release the next album of the 8 Schubert Impromptus.
Eric Lu makes his HKU Muse debut on Friday 4th October. Programme:
HANDEL Suite No. 5 in E major, HWV 430
SCHUBERT Four Impromptus, D. 935
CHOPIN Barcarolle in F-sharp major, Op. 60
CHOPIN Piano Sonata No. 3 in B minor, Op. 58
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