Czech Pianist opens Merlin Season

For two hours, the audience sat mesmerised by the breathtaking talent and maturity expressed by the young Czech pianist, Libor Novacek. This concert was certainly an outstanding start for this season’s Merlin Concerts at the Blake Theatre, Monmouth.

Born into a musical family, Libor began piano lessons with his uncle at the age of four.  Now aged twenty-five, he delighted the audience with a repertoire that covered the musical spectrum: from the dark and haunting ‘Klavierstucke’ by Brahms, to the jazz influenced vibrant Czech Dances by Martinu.

Whilst talking to the audience after his performance of Ravel’s Le Tombeau de Couperin, Novacek said; ‘Not many pianists choose to play this piece during a concert….. it is quite tricky’.  This delighted everyone present because it is in fact one of the hardest pieces to play.  Our highlight of the evening was the performance of Brahms’ Intermezzo, op.117 no.3 in C sharp minor, where Novacek displayed his great technical ability and musical understanding.  We are currently studying music A level at Monmouth Comprehensive School and together play the Flute, Piano, Viola and Clarinet. We both have a keen interest in music, being actively involved in both school and county choirs and orchestras.

We were incredibly impressed and inspired by Libor Novacek’s performance and would highly recommend his performance to anyone interested in music.

Merlin’s next concert will be given by the BBC National Orchestra of Wales on Saturday 15^th October.

Reviewed By,

Katie James and Jemma Newsome.