Alexandra Dovgan

Alexandra Dovgan might be the greatest revelation in the classical world in recent years. None other than Grigory Sokolov (at Bozar on 15 December) has praised her talent and predicted a ‘great future’ for the Russian pianist. Dovgan, who is not yet twenty years old, has put together an impressive recital at Bozar’s request. Lasting about fifty minutes, Beethoven’s “Hammerklavier” Sonata No. 29 is the ultimate challenge for any pianist. The daunting score, full of stylistic contrasts, has seen many a respected pianist break out in a sweat. Dovgan completes her programme with Rachmaninov’s virtuoso acrobatics in his Piano Sonata no. 2 and the fleeting poetry of Chopin’s Scherzo no. 2.