ADAMS, Mass. — Acclaimed pianist Steven Masi will perform at the Adams Theater on Saturday, June 28 at 7:30 p.m. 

 

Masi, who's given concerts across the world and is noted for his depth and sensitivity in playing, will bring a new approach to Bach for his first Northern Berkshire concert.

 

"He is absolutely top on my list of composers," Masi said. "But for various reasons I've been shy about playing Bach in public. This is the year I finally broke through that."

 

Bach didn't actually write for the piano, because the modern Classical piano wasn't developed in his heyday. So Masi is bringing Bach's French Suites, originally written for harpsichord or clavichord, into newer territory. 

 

"It's no easy feat because a piano can do things a harpsichord can't," Masi said. "So anything played on the piano is kind of a transcription. You have to use the phrasing and articulation that harpsichords use." 

 

Masi has spent part of his career bringing other Classical musicians to life, and is known for his sensitivity and virtuosity at the piano. Notably, he's recorded all 32 of Beethoven's sonatas. A review of his recordings of Franz Schubert's late works assert that his "slow and contemplative playing literally allows the music to glow from within." 

 

See a full lineup of events at www.adamstheater.org/present. 

 

The Adams Theater participates in Mass Cultural Council's Card to Culture program, in collaboration with the Department of Transitional Assistance, the Women, Infants & Children Nutrition Program, and the Mass Health Connector.

 

EBT, WIC, and ConnectorCare cardholders receive free admission to our shows and events by presenting their cards at our Box Office. See the complete list of participating organizations offering EBT, WIC, and ConnectorCare discounts.