Tamara Stefanovich review – inspired and insightful programme celebrates Kurtág at 100

Tamara Stefanovich's piano recital in London, titled Labyrinth, celebrated György Kurtág's musical artistry. The recital focused on Kurtág's miniature piano works, honoring his skill in brevity and economy. Stefanovich crafted a continuous 90-minute cycle without pauses to create a cohesive soundscape. She seamlessly integrated Kurtág's pieces, primarily from Játékok, with works by Debussy, Liszt, and Bach. The performance aimed to highlight the interconnectedness and echoes within Kurtág's musical style. Stefanovich's approach emphasized the "musical ghosts" present in Kurtág's sound world and his use of palimpsests. The performance wasn't a grand, large-scale tribute, but a focused exploration of Kurtág's signature style. This allowed for a more intimate and detailed examination of his musical genius. The recital provided a unique perspective, celebrating Kurtág's work through thoughtful juxtaposition of composers. It avoided the potentially misleading approach of focusing on his larger works.