Kariné Poghosyan Charms New York City with 'All That Jazz' Piano Concert

On a heartwarming Valentine's Day, Armenian pianist Kariné Poghosyan enthralled a packed house at Weill Recital Hall in Carnegie Hall with her concert, 'All That Jazz.' The show featured a repertoire that explored the nexus between classical concert music and jazz, leaving the audience captivated by her commanding performances.

Ginastera's Pianistic Challenge

Kicking off the event was Ginastera's Piano Sonata No. 1. Poghosyan harnessed a blend of lyrical passion and precision to navigate through the intricacies of this demanding piece. Her strategic use of dynamics and pedal work highlighted her impeccable technique, particularly evident in the rapid and mysterious passages of the 'Presto misterioso' section.

Eclectic Mix of Influence and Emotion

The audience was then treated to two pieces from Samuel Coleridge-Taylor's Three-Fours, keenly expressing contrasting moods: one reminiscent of a serene night and the other capturing the essence of a vibrant sunrise. Adding to the evening's variety, Poghosyan's power and playfulness emerged in full force with 'Tumbao' by Tania Léon and various expressive gems by Armenian composer Arno Babjanian, which infused the hall with remarkable emotional depth and cultural resonance.

Reinterpreting 'Rhapsody in Blue'

The highlight of the evening was a stirring yet unconventional performance of Gershwin's iconic 'Rhapsody in Blue.' Despite moments where rhythm and cleanliness wavered under the weight of her personal expressiveness and tempo, Poghosyan's approach was full of conviction and distinct flair, showcasing her desire to leave a unique mark on this venerable piece. Following this, an encore featuring Khachaturian's 'Toccata' allowed Poghosyan to shine, delivering the number with both precision and heartfelt enthusiasm.

concert, piano, jazz