Classical music stars to perform in Montville

Three powerhouses of classical music will come together for a unique concert weekend at Lucas Parklands, Montville, on Saturday May 17, and Sunday May 18.

Globally renown cellist Sam Lucas, Russian-born piano maestro Konstantin Shamray, and fellow award-winning pianist and innovator Daniel Le will perform a unique repertoire together on May 17. Shamray and Le will then perform together for a second concert on May 18. 

The impressive trio has selected a repertoire that is sure to impress and entertain local lovers of classical music.

“It’s a real treat for Queensland music to have those three musicians in the same room at the same time, and I’m totally thrilled,” said promotor Ian Lucas, of Lucas Parklands.

Sam Lucas is fresh from his invitational performance at the Holocaust Memorial at the European Parliament earlier this year and his recent appointment as head cellist of the Koblenz Symphony Orchestra, in Germany.

Shamray, who is described as one of Australia’s most adventurous and physically menacing pianists, is the first and only competitor in the 40-plus years of the Sydney International Piano Competition to win both First Prize and the People’s Choice Prize, in addition to six other prizes.

Daniel Le is a Melbournite who has built a career of performances and appointments that has spanned four continents and a wide range of genres from classical through to jazz.

“It’s a really fantastic trio and quite a coincidence to get them all in the one spot on the one day,” Ian Lucas said.

“It’s a wonderful surprise for us; the stars aligned coincidentally, because Sam is here on that day and unfortunately must leave immediately after the last note is played, to catch a flight.

“It’s a great mix of professional and talented musicians, respected the world over, and who will play some unique classical music pieces; it’s a buzz to be able to bring them all together for what will be one seriously stunning concert.”

The May 17 concert will feature some unique works:

Le will perform the Saint-Saëns piano concerto No 2, with Shamray playing the role of the accompanying orchestra.

Shamray will perform the rarely-performed Ravel piano concerto for the left hand.

“It’s not often played - being for the left hand alone - and for those who love pure pianism, it’s an absolute treat to see,” Mr Lucas explained.

The May 18 concert will feature: Shamray performing the Prokofiev Piano concerto for the left hand, Le playing the Rachmaninov Piano concerto No.2 movement 2, and the Rachmaninov Variation 18 Greig piano concerto movement 2 along with other pieces.

• For Lucas Parklands performance and ticketing enquiries, phone 0409623228. For more information visit: https://lucasparklands.com.au/

Russian-born piano maestro Konstantin Shamray.

Globally renown cellist Sam Lucas.