Paul Lewis in conversation with Philipp Bohnen (15 min.)

The English pianist Paul Lewis has an excellent reputation as one of the most serious interpreters, who avoids any superficiality – especially in the German-Austrian repertoire. In May 2019, he made his debut with the Berliner Philharmoniker under the direction of a conductor he has often worked with, Bernard Haitink. The programme featured Mozart’s Piano Concerto in B flat major K. 595, the composer’s last contribution to the genre. In addition to the Mozart work, the subjects discussed in this interval feature with violinist and orchestra member Philipp Bohnen included the challenge for a pianist of having to get used to a new instrument over and over again, and the appeal of performing not only as a soloist with an orchestra, but also in piano recitals and as a chamber musician. Another topic is the music of Beethoven and Schubert, whose contrasts Lewis particularly addresses.