Jean-Yves Thibaudet: Two Extraordinary Piano Experiences
Concert
Jean-Yves Thibaudet
Univesity of Michigan & Chicago Symphony Center
Ann Arbor (MI) & Chicago (IL),
April 22, 2026 & June 11-13, 2026
A celebration of Debussy’s magic and Bernstein’s jazz-infused brilliance
Renowned French pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet returns to the stage this season for a series of remarkable performances, offering audiences an unforgettable journey through piano masterpieces and orchestral treasures. Known for his luminous technique and deep musical insight, Thibaudet brings both the delicate colors of Debussy and the bold energy of Bernstein to life with elegance and passion.
UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN – ANN ARBOR
Concert 1: Debussy’s 24 Préludes
Date: Wednesday, April 22, 2026 7:00 PM
Location: Hill Auditorium, 825 North University Avenue, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
Short in duration but boundless in imagination, Debussy’s 24 Préludes are among the most magical works in the piano repertoire. Thibaudet, one of the foremost interpreters of Debussy today, inhabits this world with unparalleled depth and sensitivity. Drawing from both Book I and Book II of the Préludes, he brings to life pieces that evoke painting, travel, Dickens, and even Peter Pan. Having performed and recorded the complete set for over 30 years, Thibaudet closes the 2025/26 Choral Union season with his first solo recital with UMS since 2009, offering an intimate and luminous Debussy experience.
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Concert 2: Bernstein, Gershwin, Weill – America at 250
Date: June 11, 2026 7:30 PM; June 12, 2026 1:30 PM; June 13, 2026 7:30 PM
Location: Chicago Symphony Center, 220 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60604
As part of the CSO’s tribute to 250 years of American music, Thibaudet joins conductor Gaffigan and the orchestra for a series of three concerts celebrating American composers. Across these performances, he performs the flamboyant and jazz-infused Piano Solo from Leonard Bernstein’s The Age of Anxiety, inspired by W.H. Auden’s poem exploring faith and meaning. The concerts also feature shimmering orchestral arrangements of Gershwin’s Girl Crazy, evocative works by Weill, and moving selections of Negro spirituals performed with the Sanctuary Choir of the Apostolic Church of God, creating multiple evenings of rhythm, color, and expressive brilliance.
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