John Paul Ekins – L’eau et L’enfance par Debussy, Ravel, Alkan et Mompou

Charismatic and virtuosic concert pianist John Paul Ekins brings a programme of French dynamism to Brasserie Zedel. First of all, a tryptic of childhood, featuring Debussy’s hugely popular children’s corner and Ravel’s iconic Pavane for a dead princess. Alongside this is an opportunity to hear Frederic Mompou’s Scenes of Childhood, a captivating work modelled on that of the same name by Robert Schumann. The focus then switches to another favourite depiction of French Impressionism – water. Debussy’s prelude of The Submerged Cathedral is truly awesome in its scope and soundworld, and is followed by a wonderful Barcarolle by Charles-Valentin Alkan. Finally, the recital concludes with Ravel’s Sonatine, a work that exquisitely juxtaposes Classical elegance and form with French exoticism and flavour. As well as his fantastic pianism, John Paul presents his programme to audiences in an entertaining and approachable way. Brought together, the artist and audience may thereby engage in the music on more of an equal footing. With his ease of delivery and down-to-earth persona, it is a style that has brought him many accolades and sets him apart from his contemporaries.

Part of French Festival