On Saturday, Oct. 16, the Martin Center for the Arts hosted Hsiang Tu.
Tu is a Taiwanese pianist accredited by multiple music programs and newspapers, most notably by Fanfare for Tu’s “chameleon-like ability to move between composers”. He has received his M.M. and his D.M.A in Piano Performance from Juilliard. Tu now currently teaches at Virginia Tech as an assistant professor in piano.
Tu’s fame all ties to one specific trait in his performances: an animalistic style. Not only does his repertoire mostly include animal-inspired music, but his body language conveys the emotion of the literature tenfold. Tu’s expert clarity and precision on piano combined with his distinct body language truly brings life to the piano in a way that is one of a kind.
His ability to breathe life into the instrument puts the audience in a trance while he plays his selections almost instinctually, as it feels like he is living and writing the music whilst playing it.
“We are witnessing a historical moment. Dr. Tu is embarking on a series of concerts that is going to present complete works of Maurice Ravel,” Esther Park said, one of ETSU’s Associate Professors in Piano.
Tu’s animalistic and instinctual way of performing is something incredibly unique. His rendition of “Gaspard de la nuit” by Maurice Ravel was alluring throughout all three movements. Tu’s expertise in his craft not only allowed for technical perfection, but a haunting call to the audience that pulled them into the dark reality of Ravel’s movements, including titles such as “Le Gibet” (The Gallows) and “Scarbo”. Tu’s interpretation of Ravel’s staccato lines and descending tones pulled the audience into a maddening story, only to be punctuated by his own labored breaths that were deafening due to the Powell Recital Hall’s incredible acoustics.
Tu’s recital was not only auditory, but visual. His dedication was seen through him living the music while he played it. Each phrase was lived through by his facial expressions, feet movement and even the angles of where he put his hands. The sweat was visibly dripping off of his forehead by the end of each piece.
If you missed this performance, please note that Tu has recently released his album, “Bestiary on Ivory”, and will continue on tour. More information can be found on his website, hsiangjohntu.com
More performances are happening in the Martin Center! To see upcoming events, visit https://etsutickets.com/martincenter/Online/default.asp
