Vancouver-raised pianist Vicky Chow returns from New York in a highly anticipated homecoming to perform composer Philip Glass’ Piano Études, Book 1, at Christchurch Cathedral on March 28.
“Both Vicky Chow and Philip Glass exude an effortless brilliance in their music and are beautifully paired as performer and composer,” says David Pay, artistic director of Music on Main. “We’re very excited to welcome Vicky home to Vancouver, and especially to Music on Main, where she was our first artist in residence in 2018.”
Making her orchestral debut at the age of 10 with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, Chow has since collaborated and worked with leading composers and musicians, performing extensively worldwide as a classical and contemporary soloist, chamber musician, and ensemble member.
For her upcoming Vancouver performance, Chow embraces her acoustic piano roots in a solo performance of Nos 1 – 10, the first studies Glass wrote to explore and refine his own piano technique.
Glass describes Chow’s renditions of these works in her recent recording of Études, Book 1, as “a highly dynamic and expressive performance. There’s a certain energy that is uniquely hers”. Released in September 2022, the album coincided with Philip Glass’ 85th birthday.
Chow’s understanding of Glass’s Piano Études is partly informed by her connections with the composer and their shared presence in New York City’s new music community. A long-time member of the famed Bang on a Can All-Stars, a six-member amplified ensemble recognized for its live performances and recordings of today’s music, she first met Glass while performing with him on stage, at the same piano, during one of the Bang on a Can marathons staged annually in the city.
Music on Main presents Vicky Chow Plays Philip Glass on March 28 at Christ Church Cathedral (690 Burrard St, Vancouver). Visit musiconmain.ca for tickets and information.