Pianist Marc-Andre Hamelin in concert December 15, 2009

San Francisco Performances brings back one of the great pianist/composers of our time, Marc-Andre Hamelin, for a recital of works by Haydn, Mozart, Liszt, Faure and Alkan.

The exact program is: Haydn's "Variations in F minor, Hob. XVII: 6"; Mozart's Sonata in A minor, K. 310; Liszt's "Venezia e Napoli, S. 162"; Faure's "Nocturne No. 6, Op. 63"; and Alkan's "Symphonie for Solo Piano, Op. 39, Nos. 4-7."

Known for his profound intelligence and unwavering artistry, Hamelin has received eight Grammy nominations, including one in 2009 for "Marc-Andre Hamelin in a state of jazz." In March 2009, the Pro Musica Society of Hamelin's native Montreal marked its 60th anniversary season with a week-long celebration, "The Art of Marc-Andre Hamelin," that included concerts featuring the keyboardist performing chamber music, Beethoven and Haydn concerti, and in solo recital. In 2008-09, he toured with the Takacs String Quartet, performing the Schumann Piano Quintet, recording the work for Hyperion Records.

The close relationship between San Francisco Performances and Hamelin began with his San Francisco debut in 2003. Recitals followed in 2005 and 2006, and during the 2007-08 season, SFP presented Hamelin twice - in a fall recital, then again in the spring in a concert that included the screening of a documentary about the pianist, "It's All About the Music" followed by the performance of works composed by both Godowsky and Hamelin himself.

"We are honored to bring back, during this 30th anniversary season, an artist with whom we have forged an important relationship," comments SFP President Ruth Felt. "This recital will be Marc-Andre Hamelin's sixth with us since his 2003 debut, and it is gratifying to see him finally receiving the worldwide acclaim he deserves."

Hamelin has recorded over 35 discs for Hyperion, including works by Alkan, Busoni, Godowksy and Medtner as well as such well-known composers as Brahms, Haydn, Liszt and Schumann.

Official Website: http://www.performances.org